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- September 3, 2024
- 8:18 pm
- Israel
Researchers have discovered a hoard of ancient coins hidden two thousand years ago. Scientists believe the treasure belonged to participants in the first Jewish revolt against the Roman Empire.
During excavations near the town of Modin Maccabim Re'ut in Israel, archaeologists have discovered a unique collection of silver coins from the Hasmonean period, dating from 135-126 BCE. The Hasmonean dynasty, founded in 141 BCE by Simon Thassi, was a significant power in Judea during the Hellenistic Second Temple period.
The coin hoard is now on display at the Hasmonean Heritage Museum in Modin. According to the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA), the collection includes silver shekels and half-shekels bearing the images of Antiochus VII and Demetrius II Nicator, prominent figures of the Seleucid Empire during the Hellenistic period.
Scientists speculate that the coins may have been savings of a local resident, hidden for later return. “It is astonishing that this treasure remained hidden for more than two millennia before being discovered,” said Avraham Tendler, director of the excavations for the Israel Antiquities Authority.
In addition, the researchers found several bronze coins minted by Hasmonean rulers, bearing the names Yohanan, Judah, Jonathan, and Mattathias, as well as the title “High Priest and Chairman of the Council of the Jews.”
Further research suggests that the inhabitants of this estate had a connection with the First Jewish Revolt against the Roman Empire. Some coins are marked with the dates “Year Two” and “Year Three” of the revolt and bear the inscription “Freedom of Zion”. The discovery of fortifications, including a fortified wall made of large stones, confirms this connection with the revolt.
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