JUDAEA. Herodian Dynasty. Herod I the Great (40-4 BC). AE 4-prutot (24mm, 12h). NGC VG. Samarian, dated Regnal Year 3 (40/39 or 38/7 BC). Facing helmet with star atop crest; palms to either side / HPΩΔOY BAΣIΛEΩΣ, tripod with ceremonial bowl above; LΓ (date) in left field, TP monogram in right field. GBC 6, 6204. David Hendin, in his Sixth Edition of Guide to Biblical Coins, states on p. 202 "Herod's dated coins were struck in four denominations, often described as 8, 4, 2, and 1 prutot. However, our metrological studies indicate that Herod's dated coins adhered to a different weight standard. Herod's largest coin (no. 6204, 6.93gm) is only half the weight of the Antigonus coin (no. 6197, 14gm) struck at around the same time. Thus, it is quite possible that the denominations are intended as 4, 3, 2, and 1 prutot. This system is also consistent with Herod's undated coins, which are, according to weight, 2, 1, and 1/2 prutot, which combine to establish a Herodian series of five denominations. Due to the weight differences as well as find spots between the Antigonus coins and Herod's dated coins, Meshorer's suggestion that Herod's coins were struck at a mint in Samaria, rather than Jerusalem, seems credible." HID09801242017 © 2024 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

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