Judaea First Revolt – Silver Half-Shekel Replica (Year 2)

Overview & Craftsmanship

This Judaea First Revolt AR Half Shekel – Year 2 (Variant 2) is a hand-struck sterling silver replica inspired by the ancient Jewish half shekels issued during the second year of the First Jewish–Roman War (67–68 CE) at Jerusalem, under the authority of the Judean rebel administration during the uprising against Roman rule.

Each piece is individually hammered in solid silver using traditional striking techniques. This process produces irregular flans, varied relief, and surface character comparable to ancient originals, ensuring that no two pieces are exactly alike.

Unlike cast or machine-pressed copies, hand-struck replicas retain the depth, texture, and individuality characteristic of genuine ancient coinage.

Historical & Numismatic Background

• During the First Jewish Revolt (66–70 CE), the Jewish population of Judaea rose against Roman domination in a dramatic bid for political, religious, and cultural independence. One of the most powerful expressions of this defiance was the creation of an independent silver coinage — the first precious-metal coins ever struck by the Jewish people.
• Half shekels were produced alongside full shekels to facilitate Temple contributions and commercial exchange. The Year 2 issues reflect a critical phase of the revolt, as the conflict intensified and the rebel administration consolidated its authority.
• These coins were struck in high-purity silver and dated according to the years of the rebellion. Many were overstruck on Tyrian silver taken from the Temple treasury, replacing former Tyrian legends with bold Paleo-Hebrew inscriptions proclaiming Jewish sovereignty and sanctity.
• This Variant 2 represents a distinct die or stylistic variation within the Year 2 half shekel series, making it especially appealing to collectors interested in typological study and comparative numismatics.
• More than a monetary object, this coin stands as a tangible symbol of resistance, identity, and the struggle to preserve Jewish faith and culture in the face of overwhelming imperial power.

Numismatic References:

This replica is inspired by ancient issues documented in standard numismatic references, including:

– Hendin 1359

– TJC 195

– AJC II 260, 10

– MCP dies O1/R1

Technical Details & Variations

Type: Judaea First Revolt half shekel, Year 2 (Variant 2)

Denomination represented: AR Half Shekel

Authority / Mint: Jerusalem

Era represented: 67-68 CE

Material: Sterling silver (AR)

Weight: approx. 6-7 gr

Dimensions: approx. 20-21 mm

Manufacturing method: Hand-struck (hammered)

Obverse: ‘Shekel of Israel’ in Palaeo-Hebrew, around a ritual chalice

Reverse: ‘Jerusalem the Holy’ in Palaeo-Hebrew, around a branch with three pomegranates

Due to the traditional hand-striking process, natural variations in weight, diameter, strike strength, centering, and surface texture should be expected and are an intentional feature of authentic-style production.

Availability & Variations

When listed as “Add to Cart,” the coin shown in the photographs is the exact piece you will receive.

When listed as “Order Now,” the coin will be hand-struck to order. Each newly struck piece will differ slightly in appearance, reflecting the traditional minting process.

Intended Use

Suitable for:

– collectors of ancient and historical coinage

– academic or educational reference

– museum or exhibition display

– historically accurate reenactment

– high-quality numismatic gifts

Replica Disclaimer

This item is a modern, hand-struck replica inspired by ancient coinage. It is not an original ancient coin.