Judaea, Bar Kokhba Revolt. Silver Zuz (2.56 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), fluted jug with handle on left; in right field, willow branch. Hendin 1418; Mildenberg 73 (O14/R46); TJC 283. Multiple strikes interfering with the design, yet little actual wear. An interesting example of this emergency Jewish coinage. Very Fine. Estimate Value $350 - 400
From the S. Moussaieff Collection.
Zuz, the Hebrew name for the small silver issues that made up the bulk of the precious metal coinage produced by the Jewish rebels in the third year (135/4 CE) of the Bar Kokhba War, was only discovered in 1961, when a cache of documents was uncovered in a cave complex in the Dead Sea area. This included letters, receipts, and other documents apparently hidden near the end of the war and which referred to zuzim and sela'im with respect to a sale of land.