Phoenicia Tyre Silver Shekel (126/5 BC-65/6 AD) Ch XF

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Struck in the ancient Phoenician city of Tyre, this silver shekel dates specifically to the year 161 of the city's era, corresponding to the years 35 to 36 AD. Weighing 13.68 grams and containing 0.4500 troy ounces of silver, this coin is preserved in Choice Extra Fine condition, offering a remarkably clear window into the classical world. The obverse of the coin features the bold bust of Melkart, a major Phoenician deity. On the reverse, an eagle stands facing left, positioned with a palm branch draped over its shoulder. To the left of the eagle, a club appears with the date inscribed above it. This specific type of coinage holds a significant place in ancient history. Because of its high silver purity and consistent weight, the Tyrian shekel was the widely accepted currency for paying the annual temple tax in Jerusalem, making it an object of immense cultural and historical fascination.