A Poor Widow Has Paid A Visit To My Coin Altar Today,
Leaving An Authentic Piece Of Biblical Coinage From
Hasmonean/Maccabean King
Alexander Jannaeus (104-76 B.C.)
The Obverse: Wheel or star with eight rays, ancient Hebrew inscription "Yehonatan The King" between the rays
The Reverse: BASILEWS ALEXANDROU around Seleucid anchor
-Hendin 469, Meshorer 8
During this time in history the Jewish people had gained their independence from outer rule. For about one hundred years they ruled over Judaea without interference. Alexander Jannaeus was one of those rulers. Jannaeus is a direct descendant of Simon Maccabee and the great nephew of the man who established the Masada fortress. This ancient coin is known as the Poor Widow's Mite, and is the type mentioned in the New Testament of The Bible, where the poor widow donated so little, and yet it meant so much because of how much that little bit was worth to her. This is also known as a prutah. This ancient coin is struck off-center on both sides, something that was common with these ancient Biblical relics. The colorful patina which works it's way across the surface of this small coin is beautiful, and the quality of this coin would grade from Fine to Very Fine condition.
The Widow's Mite
41-Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts.
42-But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny.
43-Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others.
44-They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on."
Mark 12:41-44 (international translation)
We'll start off the bidding at the .99 cent mark. The winner of this auction will have this authentic ancient Biblical coin sent out within one business day First Class U.S. Mail with a tracking number. International customers pay the same $3.25 S/H fee as Domestic customers. Registered Mail is extra, though, and will cost a total of $12.00 should you choose to have your coin shipped Registered (recommended for my overseas friends!!). Of course I combine shipping no matter where you live. There is never an extra charge for coins shipped together.
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