Coins minted during Pontius Pilate’s governorship (26-36 AD) in Judaea are typically small bronze coins known as prutah.
- Obverse (front): Inscriptions reading “TIBEPIOY KAICAPOC” (of Tiberius Emperor) and featuring a
lituus(an augur’s wand), or depicting three bound ears of barley. - Reverse (back): A date (typically between 30-32 CE), usually inscribed within a laurel wreath, or depicting a sacrificial ladle.
- Material: Bronze.
- Size: Prutah measured between 13.5 and 17mm and were fairly crudely made.
- Minting location: Although the prefects had their residencies in Cesarea, it appears the coins were minted in Jerusalem.
- Historical context: These coins are important historical artifacts from a period coinciding with events narrated in the New Testament, including the trial and crucifixion of Jesus.
These coins hold historical significance due to their connection to Pontius Pilate, a key figure in the narratives surrounding Jesus’ life and death, [according to FORVM Ancient Coins] . They provide a tangible link to a pivotal era in the history of Judaea under Roman rule.
While not considered exceptionally rare or beautiful, these coins possess significant historical and numismatic interest. Their value for collectors can vary, typically ranging from around $100 to upwards of $300, depending on condition and other factors.
Pontius Pilate coins are available for purchase from various sources, including:
- Coin dealers: Reputable dealers specializing in ancient coins, such as Kinzer Coins or Temple Coins.
- Online marketplaces: Platforms like eBay often feature listings for these coins, [according to eBay].
- Numismatic auction houses: These can be a source for more rare or higher-quality specimens.
Note: Always exercise caution when purchasing ancient coins and ensure you are buying from a reputable source that can guarantee the coin’s authenticity.
What are the coins of Pontius Pilate?
The bronze prutah coins minted by Pontius Pilate between 26 and 36 AD reveal fascinating details about Roman-Jewish relations. Notably, these coins avoided human imagery, respecting the second commandment’s prohibition against graven images.
Which Roman coins are valuable?
Galba Aureus: a highly coveted rare Roman coin. …
Augustus Aureus: one of the rarest Roman coins. …
Brutus Aureus: a rare Roman gold coin of great value. …
EID MAR Denarius: among the rarest Roman coins in existence. …
Titus Colosseum Sestertius: a historically significant rare Roman coin.
What is the Pontius Pilate coin on the shroud of Turin?
Thus, the Pontius Pilate coin found upon the eyes of the man on the Shroud is an astounding find and one that cannot be ignored and not only does the Pontius Pilate coin directly link the Shroud of Turin to 1st century Jerusalem, but the coins reveal that the image was formed when the man on the Shroud was lying down.
What is a prutah coin?
The prutah was an ancient copper coin of the Second Temple period of Israel with low value. A loaf of bread in ancient times was worth about 10 prutot (plural of prutah).