Judaea First Revolt Half-Shekel (Year 3) | Hand-Struck Silver Coin Replica

Why collectors buy this piece

• Iconic symbol of Jewish resistance against Rome
• One of the first silver coins struck by a rebel state
• Faithfully reproduced using traditional striking methods
• Each coin is intentionally irregular — like ancient originals

Best suited for collectors seeking historically accurate, non-cast silver coinage rather than decorative replicas.

Overview & Craftsmanship

This Judaea First Revolt AR Half Shekel – Year 3 is a hand-struck sterling silver replica inspired by the ancient Jewish half shekels issued during the third year of the First Jewish–Roman War (68–69 CE) at Jerusalem, under the authority of the Judean rebel administration during the later stages of 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 support Temple contributions and everyday commercial exchange. The Year 3 issues reflect a mature and critical phase of the rebellion, when Jewish authority was firmly established and the conflict with Rome had intensified across the region.
• These coins were struck in high-purity silver and dated according to the years of the revolt. Many were likely overstruck on Tyrian silver drawn from the Temple treasury, intentionally replacing former pagan imagery with bold Paleo-Hebrew inscriptions affirming Jewish sanctity, independence, and devotion to Jerusalem.
• Year 3 half shekels are especially notable for their refined iconography and inscriptions, continuing the established ceremonial motifs of the revolt while reflecting the heightened ideological resolve of its later years.
• More than a monetary object, this coin stands as a tangible symbol of resistance, faith, and perseverance during one of the most consequential struggles in Jewish history.

Numismatic References:

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

– TJC 203

– AJC 19a

– Hendin 1362

Technical Details & Variations

Type: Judaea First Revolt half-shekel, Year 3

Denomination represented: AR half-shekel

Authority / Mint: Jerusalem

Era represented: 68-69 CE

Material: Sterling silver (AR)

Weight: approx. 6-7 gr

Dimensions: approx. 17-18 mm

Manufacturing method: Hand-struck (hammered)

Obverse: ‘Shekel of Israel’ in Palaeo-Hebrew, around a ritual chalice; date Year 3 above

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 “To order,” 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 hand-struck replica inspired by ancient coinage. It is not an original ancient coin.

Explore related historically accurate replicas:

• See other Judaea First Revolt & Jewish coin replicas
  
• View Roman & Greek silver coin replicas