The Widow’s Mite, a small bronze coin from ancient Judea, holds more religious and historical significance than monetary value . It’s mentioned in the New Testament (Mark 12:41-44, Luke 21:1-4) in the parable of the poor widow who gives two small copper coins (mites) as an offering to the temple treasury, highlighting the virtue of giving from the heart, even if the amount is small.
- Condition and preservation: This is the biggest factor affecting the coin’s value. Well-preserved examples with clear inscriptions and designs can fetch several hundred dollars.
- Circulation and wear: Many Widow’s Mite coins were heavily circulated and show significant wear, making details hard to discern. These coins typically sell for $50 or less.
- Authenticity: Counterfeit Widow’s Mite coins exist, so it’s essential to ensure the coin is genuine before purchasing. Buying from reputable sources or obtaining coins certified by a reputable grading service like NGC is recommended.
- The lepton, the coin associated with the Widow’s Mite, was a low-denomination coin minted during the reign of Alexander Jannaeus, a Hasmonean king of Judea (103 to 76 BCE).
- These coins were small, about the size of a pencil eraser, crudely struck with irregular shapes and simple imagery.
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- While the historical and religious significance of the Widow’s Mite is undeniable, its monetary value is largely determined by its physical condition and authenticity.
- For collectors, it’s crucial to be aware of the challenges of authenticating these ancient coins and to purchase from trusted sources.
What is a widows mite worth today?
In today’s terms, it would be worth about 1/8 of a cent. The one pictured below is believed to have been minted between 103 – 76 B. C. Mark 12:41-44; 41 And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much.
Are widow’s mite coins real?
From my experience, The Widows Mite is a genuine 2,000-year-old coin that was used in the Holy Land at the time of Jesus and is mentioned in the Bible. Due to its connection to Jesus and the Bible, it is one of the most famous ancient coins.
Are widow’s mites rare?
Thanks for asking. Despite its religious and historical significance, lepta, or Widow’s Mites, have relatively low numismatic value due to the large quantities in which they were minted. Many of these coins still survive today, but most examples are worn, with barely discernible details, and are typically worth less than $100.
How old is a widow’s mite coin?
This is an authentic Ancient Widow’s Mite Coin, believed to be from the Roman Imperial period (27 BC-476 AD). The coin is made of bronze . This rare piece of history is estimated to be 2000 years old and was minted during the time of Jesus.