Numismatic

Judaea Widow's Mite Alexander Jannaeus (103-76 BC) NGC

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This ancient bronze coin, known as a prutah, was minted in Judaea during the reign of Alexander Jannaeus between 103 BC and 76 BC. Small in size but rich in historical resonance, these humble copper-alloy pieces were a common currency of daily life. Because they remained in active circulation for generations, these are the very types of coins that would have been used during the lifetime of Jesus Christ. The design of this modest piece features a central anchor surrounded by pellets on the obverse side. On the reverse, a star bursts from the center of the coin. This specific class of coinage is famously associated with the biblical lessons of the Widow's Mite, as recorded in the gospels of Mark 12:41 to 12:44 and Luke 21:1 to 21:4, where a tiny offering of two small copper coins represents the ultimate act of generosity. This certified authentic specimen offers a tangible connection to the ancient world.