“Crucifixion” Half Shekel

CNG 96, Lot: 558. Estimate $500. Sold for $1800. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

PHOENICIA, Tyre. 126/5 BC-AD 65/6. AR Half Shekel (19mm, 6.93 g, 12h). Dated CY 159 (AD 33/4). Laureate bust of Melkart right, lion skin around neck / Eagle standing left on prow; palm frond in background; to left, PNΘ (date) above club; to right, KP above monogram; Phoenician A between legs. Rouvier –; RPC I 4693; BMC –; HGC 10, 358; DCA 922. VF, toned. Very rare.

According to the traditional chronology, this coin was struck in the year of Jesus’ crucifixion.