1/2 Prutah - Alexander Jannaeus

Emissor Judea
Ano 104 BC - 76 BC
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valor 1/2 Prutah
Moeda Prutah (140 BC-95 AD)
Composição Bronze
Peso 1.22 g
Diâmetro 12 mm
Espessura
Formato Round (irregular)
Técnica Hammered
Orientação Variable alignment ↺
Gravador(es)
Em circulação até
Referência(s) Hendin 6ᵗʰ#1145
Descrição do anverso Paleo-Hebrew in cursive style characters within wreath.
Escrita do anverso Hebrew
Legenda do anverso
(Translation: Yehonatan the High Priest and The Council of the Jews.)
Descrição do reverso Double cornucopiae adorned with ribbons, pomegranate between horns, border of dots.
Escrita do reverso
Legenda do reverso
Bordo
Casa da moeda
Tiragem ND (104 BC - 76 BC) - -
ID Numisquare 5464765800
Informações adicionais

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.

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