Description
| Greek, Judaea, Hasmoneans, John Hyrcanus I (Yehohanan), In the name of Seleukid king Antiochos VII Euergetes (Sidetes), AE Prutah (bronze, 2.42g, 15.6mm), Circa 131-129 BCE | |
| Obv: Lily with 2 leafs within dotted circle | |
| Rev: Upright anchor; BAΣIΛEΩΣ ANTIOXOY to left, EYEPΓETOY to right, [date] below | |
| Ref: SC 2123; Hendin GBC 5, 1131; Hendin GBC 6, 6165 | Rarity/Choice: Common, Good VF (exceedingly attractive and well centered) |
| Note: This coin is a bronze Prutah issued by John Hyrcanus I, a prominent leader of the Hasmonean dynasty in Judaea, during the period of his reign from 134 to 104 BCE. Struck in the name of the Seleucid king Antiochus VII Euergetes, known as Sidetes, it reflects the complex political dynamics of the time. The obverse of the coin features a lily, which is a common symbol in Hasmonean coinage and likely represents the prosperity and fertility of the land. On the reverse the anchor likely carries symbolic meanings related to security, faith, resilience, and the importance of trade and maritime activities in the Jewish state.John Hyrcanus I ruled Judaea during a turbulent period when the Hasmonean kingdom was caught between the declining Seleucid Empire and the rising power of the Roman Republic. By striking coins in the name of the Seleucid king, John Hyrcanus sought to assert his authority and maintain diplomatic relations with the Seleucid rulers, despite Judaea’s increasing autonomy. The coin’s use of Greek legends reflects the influence of Hellenistic culture in the region, particularly among the ruling elite. However, the choice of symbols like the lily and the anchor also shows a connection to Jewish traditions and religious symbolism. Overall, this coin provides valuable insights into the political and cultural landscape of Judaea during the Hasmonean period, highlighting the delicate balance between local autonomy and allegiance to the fading Seleucid Empire. |
