The Proud Shekel of Ancient Israel

A Supreme Artifact Revered by Jewish Collectors Worldwide
This rare and historically significant silver coin stands as a testament to national identity, faith, and resistance—preserved in remarkably high condition for nearly two millennia.

■ Design

Obverse:
Temple ritual chalice
Inscription in ancient Paleo-Hebrew: “Shekel of Israel”

Reverse:
Three pomegranate buds
Inscription in Hebrew: “Holy Jerusalem”

These designs were not merely decorative—they symbolized the spiritual and national values of the Jewish people under siege.

■ Grade

MS (Mint State)
Strike: 4/5
Surface: 3/5
NGC Certification Page

■ Coin Details

• Date: AD 68–69 (Year 3 of the First Jewish–Roman War)

• Mint: Jerusalem

• Denomination: Shekel

• Metal: Silver

• Weight: 14.16 grams

• Diameter: 22 mm

• NGC Census: 413 certified pieces

• Grade: MS with above-average strike and surface detail

■ Rarity

This shekel was issued during the Third Year of the First Jewish Revolt against Rome, one of the most defining and turbulent periods in Jewish history.
Minted in wartime Jerusalem under extreme conditions, the number of surviving specimens is limited—and Mint State examples are exceedingly rare.

Only 413 pieces have been certified by NGC, with a mere six known in CH MS grade. This coin, in MS condition with strong strike and surface ratings, belongs to the upper tier of existing examples.

Its preservation, given its 2,000-year history, is exceptional—free from the usual defects often seen in ancient silver coins.

■ Historical Significance

The First Jewish Revolt (AD 66–70) marked a large-scale uprising against Roman rule. During this time, the Jewish people asserted their independence not only through military means but also by issuing their own national currency—most notably, the shekel.

This coin reflects that aspiration. The chalice design references sacred Temple rites, while the inscription “Holy Jerusalem” signals unwavering spiritual identity. The pomegranate buds are a powerful religious symbol, often associated with righteousness and fruitfulness in Jewish tradition.

As such, this shekel transcends its role as a medium of exchange. It is a cultural and religious declaration—an act of resistance struck in silver.

■ Condition

Graded MS by NGC, with a strike rating of 4/5 and surface rating of 3/5, this coin is in remarkable condition for an ancient issue.
The legends remain legible, the imagery is well-defined, and the surfaces show no signs of corrosive wear or cleaning.
Unlike many ancient coins, this specimen has no negative qualifiers—making it highly desirable to advanced collectors.

■ Market Appeal

Due to its religious and national symbolism, the shekel is one of the most sought-after Judaean coins.
Its global demand continues to rise, not only among Jewish collectors but also among investors seeking historically meaningful artifacts.

Coins of this caliber appear infrequently on the open market. When they do, they attract strong bidding and are quickly absorbed into long-term collections.

■ Final Statement

This shekel is not just an ancient coin—it is a historic document, a spiritual icon, and a rare investment-grade artifact.

Its striking quality, profound symbolism, and limited availability make it an ideal centerpiece for serious collectors and a lasting legacy for future generations.

Whether acquired for historical preservation, cultural identity, or long-term value, this coin represents a singular opportunity to hold a tangible connection to one of the most significant moments in Jewish history.

If you are building a collection of lasting meaning and depth, this is a coin to consider with the utmost seriousness.