© British Museum
© British Museum
½ Sheqel Year
| Bronze | 15.5 g | 26 mm |
| Issuer | Judea |
|---|---|
| Period | First Jewish-Roman War (66-73) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 69-70 |
| Value | ½ Sheqel |
| Currency | The Great Revolt ‒ Shekel (66-70) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 15.5 g |
| Diameter | 26 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | 0073 |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#88342 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Seven-branched palm tree with two bunches of dates, flanked by baskets of dates
Script: Hebrew
Lettering: לגאלת ציון
Translation: to the redemption of Zion
Interesting fact
The ½ Sheqel coin from Judea, which was minted during Year 4 (69-70 CE), features an image of a pomegranate on one side and an inscription in ancient Hebrew on the other. The pomegranate was a symbol of fertility and abundance in ancient Judea, and it's believed that the coin was used as a form of payment for everyday transactions. Despite its small size and relatively low value, this coin is considered a significant artifact in the history of Jewish numismatics.
