1/2 Ma'ah-Obol Judea

Historical Context: This 1/2 Ma'ah-Obol originates from Yehud Medinata, the Persian satrapy of Judea, during the Achaemenid period (539-332 BC). Issued under Persian suzerainty, these early silver pieces signify a crucial step for local economic autonomy post-Babylonian exile. Circulating alongside imperial Persian and Greek coinage, they fulfilled local commercial needs, serving as evidence of Judea's administrative structure and identity within the Persian Empire.

Artistry: The engravers of these minute coins are unknown, likely local artisans influenced by broader Eastern Mediterranean styles. Despite often provincial execution, designs frequently echo contemporary Greek prototypes. Common motifs include the lily (a symbol of Judea), owls, falcons, or simplified human/deity heads. The extremely small flan size dictated a schematic rendering; yet, this artistry, though constrained, offers crucial insight into the period's cultural and numismatic influences.

Technical/Grading: At just 0.3 grams, the 1/2 Ma'ah-Obol inherently presents striking and preservation challenges. High-points (e.g., eyes, intricate device details) are invariably weakly struck or flat. Irregular flans, off-center strikes, and shallow relief are characteristic. A perfectly centered, detailed example is exceedingly rare. Grading prioritizes overall device preservation and legibility of discernible features, rather than sharp detail, seldom encountered on these early, diminutive issues.