A Coin from the Time of Christ – The Biblical Widow’s Mite

JUDAEA – Herod I “the Great,” 40–4 BC

AE Prutah | Hendin 1344 | NGC Ancients Certified

This authentic bronze prutah was struck under Herod I, ruler of Judea during the lifetime of Jesus Christ and the period of the Second Temple in Jerusalem.

These small coins are widely identified as the “Widow’s Mites” referenced in the New Testament as seen on this specialized NGC Ancients holder:

• Mark 12:41–44

• Luke 21:1–4

In this account, a poor widow gives two small coins to the Temple treasury—an act Christ declares more meaningful than the offerings of the wealthy.

Because of this, this coin type is one of the most recognized and historically meaningful Biblical artifacts available to collectors today.

🪙 OBVERSE: Ancient anchor device, reflecting Hellenistic influence under Herod’s rule.

• Anchor form remains clearly visible and attributable

• Central design still identifiable despite circulation wear

The anchor is a defining feature of this issue and confirms the type.

🏛️ REVERSE: Eight-rayed star (diadem/starburst) within border.

• Star device visible and recognizable

Key detail:

The star is the primary diagnostic feature of the Biblical Widow’s Mite—many surviving examples are too worn to confirm.

This coin retains enough structure to clearly identify the type.

🔍 ATTRIBUTION:

• Ruler: Herod I (the Great)

• Date: 40–4 BC

• Reference: Hendin 1344

• Denomination: AE Prutah

• Mint: Jerusalem (Second Temple period)

✨ Why This Example is Desirable: Widow’s Mites are rarely found with strong detail. This piece offers:

• Clearly identifiable anchor and star devices

• Authentic circulated surfaces consistent with ancient use

• Certified and authenticated by NGC Ancients

Most importantly:

This is a recognizable example, not a worn blank—making it far more desirable to both collectors and Biblical enthusiasts.

⚔️ HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE: Struck during the reign of Herod the Great, known for:

• The expansion of the Second Temple in Jerusalem

• His role in the Biblical narrative surrounding the Nativity

• Governance of Judea under Roman authority

These coins circulated among everyday people of the time—making them one of the closest physical connections to daily life in Biblical-era Judea.

📈 COLLECTOR & CULTURAL APPEAL: Widow’s Mites are actively collected by:

• Biblical / religious collectors

• Ancient coin collectors

• Historical artifact enthusiasts

Demand remains strong due to the universal recognition of the Biblical story.

✅ AUTHENTICITY & GUARANTEE:

• Certified genuine by NGC Ancients

• Professionally attributed

• You will receive the exact coin pictured

This is a tangible artifact from the Biblical world—

a coin type handled and referenced during one of the most powerful moments in the New Testament. Own this holy land artifact while it’s available!

Disclaimer: Many coins, including ancient coins do not always receive letter or number grades even when they receive from NGC or PCGS, due to Ebay’s new policy I had to give an approximate grade but due to the nature of ancient coins the grade number is strictly there as an general guide and should not be used as the grade, the only official grade is on holder*