Alexander Jannaeus Bronze Prutah — The Traditional “Widow’s Mite” Type

Own a Coin Type Associated with the World of the New Testament

A genuine NGC-certified Judaean bronze prutah of Alexander Jannaeus, one of the small Hasmonean bronze types traditionally associated by collectors with the “Widow’s Mite” of the Gospel accounts.

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📷 Coins shown are representative examples. You will receive one authentic NGC-certified bronze prutah of Alexander Jannaeus. Ancient coins naturally vary in grade, strike, centering, patina, wear, and overall appearance.

Why This Coin Matters

In Mark 12:41–44 and Luke 21:1–4, Jesus observes a poor widow placing two very small coins into the Temple treasury and praises the significance of her offering. The biblical text does not identify the ruler or exact coin type.

Bronze prutot of Alexander Jannaeus, who ruled Judaea from 103–76 BC, are traditionally sold and collected as “Widow’s Mites” because they represent the kind of low-value local bronze money associated with Judaea around the broader New Testament period. The connection is therefore a traditional identification rather than proof that any particular surviving Jannaeus coin was one of the widow’s actual coins.

That distinction does not diminish the history of the object. This is genuine money of the Hasmonean Kingdom, struck in Judaea during the Second Temple period and connected to the monetary world that preceded Roman rule in the region.

These small bronzes commonly use symbols rather than royal portraits, including designs such as the anchor, star, cornucopia, and Hebrew or Greek inscriptions depending on the issue. They offer an accessible way to encounter the political, religious, and economic world of ancient Judaea through an authentic artifact.

What You’ll Receive

• One authentic NGC-certified bronze prutah of Alexander Jannaeus
• Civilization: Hasmonean Kingdom of Judaea
• Ruler: Alexander Jannaeus
• Date: 103–76 BC
• Material: Bronze
• Traditionally collected as a “Widow’s Mite” type
• NGC certified

Perfect For

• First-time ancient coin collectors
• Biblical and Second Temple history enthusiasts
• Collectors interested in ancient Judaea
• Students and educators
• Anyone looking for an accessible artifact from the world surrounding the New Testament

Buy with Confidence

• NGC certified
• Guaranteed authentic ancient coin
• Carefully sourced and verified
• 30-day return policy
• Secure shipping from the U.S.

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Learn More

Continue the story in the Kinzer Coins Journal: Widow's Mite Coins: Lepta of Alexander Jannaeus & Biblical Context.