1/2 Prutah - Alexander Jannaeus

Emittent Judea
Jahr 104 BC - 76 BC
Typ Standard circulation coin
Nennwert 1/2 Prutah
Währung Prutah (140 BC-95 AD)
Material Bronze
Gewicht 1.22 g
Durchmesser 12 mm
Dicke
Form Round (irregular)
Prägetechnik Hammered
Ausrichtung Variable alignment ↺
Stempelschneider
Im Umlauf bis
Referenz(en) Hendin 6ᵗʰ#1145
Aversbeschreibung Paleo-Hebrew in cursive style characters within wreath.
Aversschrift Hebrew
Averslegende
(Translation: Yehonatan the High Priest and The Council of the Jews.)
Reversbeschreibung Double cornucopiae adorned with ribbons, pomegranate between horns, border of dots.
Reversschrift
Reverslegende
Rand
Prägestätte
Auflage ND (104 BC - 76 BC) - -
Numisquare-ID 5464765800
Zusätzliche Informationen

Historical Context: Alexander Jannaeus (Yehonatan), Hasmonean King and High Priest of Judea (104-76 BC), ruled during a period of territorial expansion and severe internal strife, including civil war. This 1/2 Prutah is a tangible artifact of his reign, minted amidst significant political and religious upheaval. It reflects his assertion of sovereignty and dual authority, despite frequent conflict with segments of his Jewish populace.

Artistry: The engraver of this 1/2 Prutah remains anonymous, typical for Hasmonean issues. The stylistic school is Judean, yet incorporates Hellenistic numismatic influences in its symbolism. The obverse features an anchor, a common Hellenistic motif possibly alluding to naval power or stability. The reverse displays an eight-rayed star, often interpreted as a celestial symbol or early Star of David, sometimes within a diadem signifying royal authority. Execution is often utilitarian, reflecting local minting practices.

Technical/Grading: This bronze 1/2 Prutah (1.22 grams, 12 millimeters) often exhibits technical strike qualities characteristic of Hasmonean issues. High-points for detail include the anchor's flukes and ring, and the star's central point and ray tips. Due to the small flan and production methods, examples are frequently off-center, with partial strikes, or on irregular planchets. Clarity of the primary symbols and any remnants of inscriptions are paramount for assessing strike quality and grade.

×