½ Sheqel (Year 1) (66-67) front ½ Sheqel (Year 1) (66-67) back
½ Sheqel (Year 1) (66-67) photo
© British Museum

½ Sheqel Year

 
Silver 6.8 g 19 mm
Description
Issuer
Judea
Period
First Jewish-Roman War (66-73)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
66-67
Value
½ Sheqel
Currency
The Great Revolt ‒ Shekel (66-70)
Composition
Silver
Weight
6.8 g
Diameter
19 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
0073
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#93080
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Staff with three pomegranate buds, round base

Script: Hebrew

Lettering: ירושלם קדשה

Translation: Jerusalem [the] holy

Interesting fact

The ½ Sheqel coin from Judea, minted in 66-67 CE, was part of a series of coins issued during the First Jewish-Roman War (66-73 CE). These coins were used to finance the war effort and showcase the Jewish rebels' defiance against the Roman Empire. Despite being made of silver, the coin's value was not based on its metal content but rather on its face value, which was set by the Jewish authorities. This coin, in particular, was worth half a shekel, which was a significant amount at the time.