Reign of King Mattathias Antigonus (Mattatayah) (40-37 B.C.)

Obverse: Double cornucopia with Hebrew inscription “Mattataya the high priest and council of the Jews”.

Reverse: Ivy wreath tied at top with ribbons hanging down and Greek inscription “King Antigonus”.

This is a very rare and large bronze coin issued under the Maccabean ruler King Mattathia Antigonus. Found in Judea. In very good condition. With natural greenish patina.

22 mm diameter; 14.2 g

Custom olive wood box, shipping and Certificate of Authenticity included in price.

Export Approval from Israel Antiquities Authority.

Bibliography:
Yaakov Meshorer, “Ancient Jewish Coinage Vol. II”, (New York: 1982)

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Antigonus, whose Hebrew name was Mattatayah (Mattathias), issued a large coin with cornucopia, an ivy wreath, Greek lettering that read King Antigonus, and the Hebrew inscription of the type that had been introduced by his grandfather, MATTATAYAH THE HIGH PRIEST AND COUNCIL OF THE JEWS. Smaller coins just have a rudimentary "Mattatayah." .
The son of the late Aristobulus II made an attempt to take control of the nation from Rome. The result was his death and the appointment by the Senate of Antipater's son Herod as King of Judaea.

Antique Coins
Ancient coins