Sale: CNG 69, Lot: 690. Estimate $400.  Closing Date: Wednesday, 8 June 2005.  Sold For $325. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

JUDAEA. Bar Kochba Revolt. 132-135 CE. AR Zuz ­ Denarius (3.10 gm, 1h). Undated year 3 (134/5 CE). Grapes / Palm branch. Mildenberg 170 (O21/R103); Meshorer 281; Hendin 729. EF for type, some striking weakness. ($400)

Ex Classical Numismatic Group 61 (25 September 2002), lot 863.

Although it seems counterintuitive, the evidence of the legend layout and die orientation support Meshorer's contention that the grape cluster and vine leaves on Bar Kochba have to be orientated pointing upwards. All other Bar Kochba have a consistent die orientation close to 12:00, except for the grapes and leaves if you have them pointed downwards. When there are hybrids, the die orientation would seem to shift when grapes or leaves are involved. How you get grapes to point upwards remains a sticking point.