Obverse: Three Bound Heads of Barley, the Outer Two Drooping, Encircled by Inscription, “IUYLIA KAICAPOP” or “Empress Julia” Reverse: Simpulum (a Libation Ladle) and Date “LIS “ (Year 16 or 29 A.D.) Surrounded by Inscription, “TIBEPIOY KAICAPOC” or “of Tiberius Caesar” Pontius Pilate was the Roman Procurator of Judea from 26 until 36 A.D. Though much literature, both ancient and modern, portrays him as infamous and incompetent, the judge who sentenced Jesus to death; however, it may be fairer to say he was a complex man beleaguered by extraordinary circumstances in a difficult time. The world in which Jesus lived was dominated by the Romans, although Rome did make concessions to the sensibilities of other cultures. This powerful coin is a case in point, showing three ears of barley bound together. Out of respect for Jewish sensitivity regarding graven images, coins depicted “still life” subjects such as palm branches, cornucopia, etc. The poignant beauty of this coin matches the simple faith of the most pious. It is a memorial to one of the most momentous eras in history, when Roman paganism, Judaism, and the nascent faith of Christianity all intermingled in the same land. Origin: Jerusalem Circa: 29 AD Collection: Numismatics Style: Procurators of Judea Medium: Bronze

Antique Coins
Ancient coins