Judaea, Bar Kokhba Revolt. Silver Zuz (2.97 g), 132-135 CE. Undated, attributed to year 3 (134/5 CE). 'Simon' (Paleo-Hebrew) within wreath of thin branches wrapped around eight almonds, with a medallion at top and tendrils at bottom. Reverse: 'For the freedom of Jerusalem' (Paleo-Hebrew), upright palm branch. Hendin 1416; Mildenberg 65 (O14/R37); TJC 279c. Untoned. Superb Extremely Fine. Estimate Value $600 - 700
From the S. Moussaieff Collection.
The zuzim attributed to the third year of the Bar Kokhba War continue the wreathed name of Simon [bar Kokhba] and palm branch types of the second year even though by this time the hope of victory, as symbolized by the palm, was quickly slipping away as Roman forces massed against Judaea and prepared for the final onslaught.