© British Museum
© British Museum
½ Prutah - Herod the Great 40 BC - 4 BC
| Bronze | 0.86 g | 13 mm |
| Issuer | Judea |
|---|---|
| King | Herod the Great (37 BC - 4 BC) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 40 BC - 4 BC |
| Value | ½ Prutah |
| Currency | Prutah (140 BC-95 AD) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 0.86 g |
| Diameter | 13 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#95657 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
Eagle standing right
Comment
The first coin issued by a Jewish ruler with a graven image. The eagle may represent the golden bird King Herod placed above the entrance to the Jerusalem Temple.David Hendin Guide to Biblical Coins
Interesting fact
The ½ Prutah coin featuring Herod the Great is notable for its historical significance, as it was issued during the reign of a powerful and influential king who played a major role in shaping the political and religious landscape of the ancient Near East. Herod the Great was a Roman client king who ruled Judea from 37 BC to 4 BC and is known for his ambitious building projects, including the renovation of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. The coin's design, which features a portrait of Herod on one side and a star on the other, reflects the cultural and religious influences of the time.
