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Home ▸ Catalog ▸ |Judean & Biblical Coins| ▸ |Jewish Revolts| ▸ |Bar Kochba||View Options:   | | | The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. It is also referred to as The Second Jewish Revolt, or The Third Jewish Revolt (counting the Kitos War, 115 – 117). The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia. |
These coins are usually overstruck on earlier denarii or drachms.JD91425. Silver zuz, Mildenberg 174 (O22/R109); BMC Palestine, p. 299, 79; SNG ANS 561; Hendin 6462; Meshorer TJC 274, Choice EF, broad flan, flow lines, tiny edge cracks, die wear, weight 3.362 g, maximum diameter 19.6 mm, die axis 225o, Judaean mint, undated issue of year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse Paleo-Hebrew legend: Shim'on, bunch of grapes in three lobes hanging from branch, which has a tendril to the left and a leaf to the right; reverse Paleo-Hebrew legend: for the freedom of Jerusalem, kithara with three strings; from the Maxwell Hunt Collection; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors were dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.JD98134. Bronze AE 20, Mildenberg p. 332, 156 (O4/R6); SNG ANS 586 (same dies); Meshorer AJC 80; Meshorer TJC p. 255, 301; Hendin 6466; Sofaer p. 283, 166, Choice gVF, well centered and struck, attractive applied desert patina, weight 5.293 g, maximum diameter 18.4 mm, die axis 180o, Jerusalem mint, undated, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Jerusalem", seven-branched palm tree with two small bunches of dates, top of tree bent to the left; reverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: 'For the Freedom of Jerusalem', bunch of grapes on vine with small leaf; extraordinary for the type!; scarce; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.
Obverse legend:
Reverse inscription: 
JD99306. Bronze AE 19, SNG ANS 587; Mildenberg 159 (O4/-); BMC Palestine p. 315, 102; Meshorer TJC 302a; Sofaer 169; Hendin 6467, VF, green patina, light earthen deposits, mild porosity, weight 5.528 g, maximum diameter 19.0 mm, die axis 180o, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse Paleo-Hebrew legend counterclockwise from upper left: "For the Freedom of Jerusalem", bunch of grapes with branch and small leaf; reverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Shimon", seven-branched palm tree with two bunches of fruit, Paleo-Hebrew inscription divided by trunk of palm: "Shimon"; this reverse die is missing from Mildenberg, from a private collector in New Jersey; SOLD
These coins are usually overstruck on earlier denarii or drachms. Traces of the undertype are present on the obverse circle of dots.SH28931. Silver zuz, Hendin 6443, EF, weight 3.313 g, maximum diameter 18.9 mm, die axis 0o, Judaean mint, undated year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse Shim'on (in Hebrew) within wreath of thin branches wrapped around eight almonds, medallion at the top, tendrils at the bottom; reverse For the freedom of Jerusalem (in Hebrew), palm-branch; toned; SOLD
These coins are usually overstruck on earlier denarii or drachms. Traces of the undertype bust and obverse legend are visible on the reverse.SH63938. Silver zuz, Mildenberg p. 255, 161 (O21/R81); Hendin 6460; TJC 285. AJC II 275, 68; overstruck on a Roman denarius or drachm of Trajan(?), VF, weight 3.484 g, maximum diameter 18.6 mm, die axis 180o, undated, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: Simon, bunch of grapes in three lobes hanging from branch, which has a tendril to the left and a leaf to the right; part of undertype legend visible, 6:00 - 8:00 (GER?); reverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: for the freedom of Jerusalem, fluted jug, handle on left, willow branch on right; ex Gemini; SOLD
These coins are usually overstruck on earlier denarii or drachms. This example is overstruck on a Trajan denarius.SL89834. Silver zuz, Mildenberg 213 (O24/R137); BMC Palestine, p. 299, 79 (same dies); SNG ANS 561 (same dies); Hendin 6462; Meshorer TJC 274, NGC Ch XF, strike 2/5, surface 3/5, overstruck [on a Trajan denarius] (4283488-001), weight 3.24 g, maximum diameter 19.0 mm, die axis 180o, Judaean mint, undated issue of year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse Paleo-Hebrew legend: Shim'on, bunch of grapes in three lobes hanging from branch, which has a tendril to the left and a leaf to the right; reverse Paleo-Hebrew legend: for the freedom of Jerusalem, kithara with three strings; NGC| Lookup; SOLD
After the defeat of Bar Kochba rebellion, Judea would not be a center of Jewish religious, cultural, or political life again until the modern era, although Jews continued to sporadically populate it and important religious developments still took place there. Galilee became an important center of Rabbinic Judaism, where the Jerusalem Talmud was compiled in the 4th-5th centuries. In the aftermath of the defeat, the maintenance of Jewish settlement in Palestine became a major concern of the rabbinate. The Sages endeavored to halt Jewish dispersal, and even banned emigration from Palestine, branding those who settled outside its borders as idolaters.JD99308. Bronze AE 25, Mildenberg 112 (O10/R76); SNG ANS 570 - 572 (same dies); cf. BMC Palestine p. 307, 31; Sofaer 144; Meshorer TJC 292a; Hendin 6464, gVF, dark green patina, light earthen deposits, weight 10.201 g, maximum diameter 24.5 mm, die axis 180o, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Shimon", seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; reverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "for the freedom of Jerusalem", five-lobed vine-leaf with strongly accentuated ribs, hanging from curved branch, short tendril right; from a private collector in New Jersey; SOLD
After the defeat of Bar Kochba rebellion, Judea would not be a center of Jewish religious, cultural, or political life again until the modern era, although Jews continued to sporadically populate it and important religious developments still took place there. Galilee became an important center of Rabbinic Judaism, where the Jerusalem Talmud was compiled in the 4th-5th centuries. In the aftermath of the defeat, the maintenance of Jewish settlement in Palestine became a major concern of the rabbinate. The Sages endeavored to halt Jewish dispersal, and even banned emigration from Palestine, branding those who settled outside its borders as idolaters.JD99311. Bronze AE 29, Mildenberg 115 (O10/R79); cf. Meshorer TJC 292a; BMC Palestine p. 312, 80; SNG ANS 572; Hendin 6464, gVF, green patina with highlighting earthen deposits, weight adjustment marks, flan cracks, weight 7.929 g, maximum diameter 28.9 mm, die axis 180o, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Shimon", seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; reverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "for the freedom of Jerusalem", five-lobed vine-leaf with strongly accentuated ribs, hanging from curved branch, short tendril right; from a private collector in New Jersey; SOLD
In 134, the Romans captured Jerusalem. Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135, at Betar, a fortress where he had taken refuge. Jerusalem, largely destroyed, was renamed Colonia Aelia Capitolina. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in the city and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple in Jerusalem. Although, resistance continued in Galilee, the Jewish diaspora began as Emperor Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jews remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.
Obverse legend:
Reverse legend: 
JD111141. Bronze AE 24, Mildenberg 32 (O2/R11); SNG ANS 580; BMC Palestine p. 3, 93; Meshorer TJC 297a; Sofaer p. 283, & pl. 236, 16; Hendin 6463 (S), VF, highlighting earthen deposits, tight flan, small edge splits, obv. center weak, weight 5.937 g, maximum diameter 24.2 mm, die axis 0o, undated, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription counterclockwise from lower right: for the freedom of Jerusalem, upright palm branch within laurel wreath, wreath with four groups of three leaves on each side, a medallion at the top and ribbon ties at the bottom; reverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription counterclockwise from lower right: Shimon, kithara (lyre) with a long soundbox, three strings, and horn-like protrusions; ex Amphora Coins (David Hendin) with his signed photo authenticity receipt; ex S. Moussaieff Collection; ex Goldberg auction 110 (4 Jun 2019), lot 1776 (part of); scarce; SOLDJudaea, Bar Kochba Revolt, 132 - 135 A.D.
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors were dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.JD111142. Bronze AE 21, Mildenberg p. 247, 147 (O1/R1); Hendin 6409a (R); Sofaer p. 277, 26; Meshorer TJC p. 246, 225, Choice VF, well struck on a broad flan, brown patina with reddish earthen deposits, scratches, weight 7.665 g, maximum diameter 21.4 mm, die axis 180o, Jerusalem mint, 132 - 133 A.D.; obverse retrograde Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Elezar the Priest", seven-branched palm tree with two small bunches of dates, top of tree bent to the left; reverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: 'year one for the Freedom of Israel", bunch of grapes on vine with small leaf; ex Amphora Coins (David Hendin) with his signed photo authenticity receipt; ex S. Moussaieff Collection; ex Goldberg auction 110 (4 Jun 2019), lot 1776 (part of); rare; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.JD98133. Bronze AE 25, Mildenberg p. 310, 54 (O3/R18), Sofaer 70; Meshorer TJC p. 250, 260a; Hendin 6436, Nice gVF, attractive green patina, applied red earthen highlighting, reverse slightly off center, weight 13.55 g, maximum diameter 24.9 mm, die axis 180o, year 2, 133 - 134 A.D.; obverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "S-M/A" (abbreviating Simon), seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; reverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Year 2 of the freedom of Israel", vine leaf on tendril; SOLD
These coins are usually overstruck on Roman denarii or drachms. The silhouette of the back of an emperors head is visible on the reverse.SH42161. Silver zuz, Mildenberg 79, Hendin 6445, EF, sharp, overstrike effects, weight 3.150 g, maximum diameter 18.4 mm, die axis 0o, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse Hebrew, "SHIMON"of five letters in two lines, within wreath of thin branches wrapped around eight almonds, tendrils at the bottom; reverse Hebrew legend, "For the freedom of Jerusalem", fluted jug with handle left, palm branch right (symbolizing the festival of booths in the Temple); SOLD
In 134, the Romans captured Jerusalem. Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135, at Betar, a fortress where he had taken refuge. Jerusalem, largely destroyed, was renamed Colonia Aelia Capitolina. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in the city and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple in Jerusalem. Although, resistance continued in Galilee, the Jewish diaspora began as Emperor Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jews remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.JD58246. Bronze AE 24, Mildenberg 142 (O11/R106), Meshorer TJC 289; Hendin 6464, gVF, weight 11.300 g, maximum diameter 24.2 mm, die axis 180o, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D; obverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Shimon", seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; reverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "for the freedom of Jerusalem", five-lobed vine-leaf, hanging from curved branch; SOLD
This obverse die type, naming Eleazar the priest, was used in the first year of the Bar Kokhba Revolt (132 - 133 A.D.), but on this rare type it is combined with an undated reverse attribute to the third year (134 - 135 A.D.).JD113059. Bronze AE 19, Mildenberg 155 (04/R4); Hendin 6465 (R); Meshorer TJC 300; Sofaer Collection 164; Bromberg 262, Nice VF, nice green patina, highlighting earthen deposits, weight 5.839 g, maximum diameter 18.5 mm, die axis 180o, undated, attributed to year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse seven-branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; Paleo-Hebrew inscription irregularly arranged across field: "Eleazar the priest"; reverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "For the freedom of Jerusalem", bunch of grapes with branch and small leaf; rare; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.SL110341. Bronze AE 26, Mildenberg 132 (O10/R96); SNG ANS 566 - 569; Hendin 6464; cf. BMC Palestine p. 307, 31; Sofaer 144; Meshorer TJC 290 ff., NGC Ch XF, strike 4/5, surface 4/5 (5883905-024), weight 11.84 g, maximum diameter 25.8 mm, die axis 180o, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Shimon", seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; reverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "for the freedom of Jerusalem", five-lobed vine-leaf with strongly accentuated ribs, hanging from curved branch, short tendril right; NGC| Lookup; 118-132; SOLD
These coins are usually overstruck on earlier denarii or drachms. Roman Imperial bust wreath ties are clearly visible on the reverse, as well as the back of the head and neck.SH21684. Silver zuz, Mildenberg 167, Hendin 6458, Meshorer TJC 277, aEF, flat strike areas, weight 3.369 g, maximum diameter 19.0 mm, die axis 180o, Judaean mint, undated, 132 - 135 A.D.; obverse Shim'on (in Hebrew), bunch of grapes; reverse For the freedom of Jerusalem (in Hebrew), two trumpets; SOLD
Hadrian, 11 August 117 - 10 July 138 A.D.
In summer 130 A.D., Hadrian traveled from Syria, into Judaea and Palestine, and then on to Egypt. The bar-Kochba revolt in Judaea forced Hadrian to remain in the region until 135. In 136 A.D., Hadrian returned to Rome, ending his long travels.SH72906. Orichalcum sestertius, RIC II 894 (R), Hendin 6635d, Cohen II 52, SRCV II 3566 var., Fair, weight 24.916 g, maximum diameter 31.5 mm, die axis 225o, Rome mint, c. 136 - 138 A.D.; obverse HADRIANVS AVG COS III P P, laureate and draped bust right; reverse ADVENTVI AVG IVDAEAE, Hadrian on left, standing right, togate, raising right hand, facing Judaea who holds a patera over altar in right and cup in left, two small children each holding a palm frond flank the altar, S C (senatus consulto) in exergue; rare; SOLD
These coins are usually overstruck on earlier denarii or drachms. Roman Imperial legend trace "TR P II COS III.."is visible on the obverse, pointing to a Nerva denarius undertype.SH28912. Silver zuz, Mildenberg 170 (O21/R103), Hendin 6457, Meshorer 281, Choice aEF, weight 3.326 g, maximum diameter 18.3 mm, die axis 180o, Judaean mint, undated, 132 - 135 A.D.; obverse Shim'on (in Hebrew), bunch of grapes; reverse For the freedom of Jerusalem (in Hebrew), Lulav (palm-frond); SOLD
In 134, the Romans captured Jerusalem. Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135, at Betar, a fortress where he had taken refuge. Jerusalem, largely destroyed, was renamed Colonia Aelia Capitolina. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in the city and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple in Jerusalem. Although, resistance continued in Galilee, the Jewish diaspora began as Emperor Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jews remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.
Obverse legend:
Reverse legend: JD113061. Bronze AE 23, Mildenberg 32 (O2/R11); SNG ANS 580; BMC Palestine p. 3, 93; Meshorer TJC 297a; Sofaer p. 283, & pl. 236, 16; Hendin 6463 (S), F/VF, brown patina, highlighting earthen deposits, rougher areas, tight flan, weight 7.593 g, maximum diameter 22.7 mm, die axis 45o, undated, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription counterclockwise from lower right: for the freedom of Jerusalem, upright palm branch within laurel wreath, wreath with four groups of three leaves on each side, a medallion at the top and ribbon ties at the bottom; reverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription counterclockwise from lower right: Shimon, kithara (lyre) with a long soundbox, three strings, and horn-like protrusions; scarce; SOLD
All the coins of the Bar Kokhba Revolt are overstruck on circulating coinage. The coins were apparently struck at two mints, a central or "regular" and a subsidiary or "irregular" mint somewhere in the Judaean desert to the west of Jerusalem. - D. Barag, "The Two Mints of the bar Kokhba War," Israel Numismatic Journal 14 (2000-2), pp. 153 - 156.SH49484. Bronze AE 20, Mildenberg 148, Meshorer TJC 225, Meshorer AJC II 7a, Meshorer AJC II 8, Hendin 6409a (R), Sofaer 26, VF, attractive well centered coin, minor edge defect, beautiful patina, weight 4.987 g, maximum diameter 19.6 mm, die axis 180o, central "regular" mint, year 1, 132 - 133 A.D.; obverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription (retrograde): "Eleazar the Priest", seven-branched palm tree with two small bunches of dates, top of tree bent to the left; reverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Year 1 of the redemption of Israel", bunch of grapes on vine with small leaf upper left; rare; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.SH49485. Bronze AE 25, Mildenberg 61, Meshorer TJC 260, Hendin 6436, VF, weight 10.438 g, maximum diameter 24.9 mm, die axis 180o, year 2, 133 - 134 A.D.; obverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "SMA" (abbreviating Simon), seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; reverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Year 2 of the freedom of Israel", vine leaf on tendril; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors were dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.SL110271. Bronze AE 20, Mildenberg 149, Sofaer 24, Meshorer TJC 224a, Meshorer AJC II 7a, Hendin 6409c (R), VF, near centered, dark green patina with red earthen highlighting, weight 5.923 g, maximum diameter 18.0 mm, die axis 180o, central "regular" mint, year 1, 132 - 133 A.D.; obverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Eleazar the Priest", seven-branched palm tree with two small bunches of dates, top of tree bent to the left; reverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Year 1 of the redemption of Israel", bunch of grapes on vine with small leaf upper left; from an Israeli Collection, ex Shick Coins; rare; SOLD
Judaea, Bar Kochba Revolt, 132 - 135 A.D., Irregular Issue
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.JD111382. Bronze AE 27, Hendin 6464a, cf. Mildenberg 187, Sofaer 96 - 97, Meshorer TJC 259, aVF, well centered, crude irregular style and epigraphy, weight 12.017 g, maximum diameter 27.5 mm, die axis 180o, undated, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "for the freedom of Jerusalem", three-lobed grape leaf on a tendril; reverse seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates, paleo-Hebrew inscription "Shimon" (Simon) divided by trunk; SOLD
After the defeat of Bar Kochba rebellion, Judea would not be a center of Jewish religious, cultural, or political life again until the modern era, although Jews continued to sporadically populate it and important religious developments still took place there. Galilee became an important center of Rabbinic Judaism, where the Jerusalem Talmud was compiled in the 4th-5th centuries. In the aftermath of the defeat, the maintenance of Jewish settlement in Palestine became a major concern of the rabbinate. The Sages endeavored to halt Jewish dispersal, and even banned emigration from Palestine, branding those who settled outside its borders as idolaters.JD58248. Bronze AE 27, Mildenberg 146 (O11/R110), Meshorer TJC 292a; Hendin 6464, gVF, weight 12.578 g, maximum diameter 26.8 mm, die axis 180o, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Shimon", seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; reverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "for the freedom of Jerusalem", five-lobed vine-leaf with strongly accentuated ribs, hanging from curved branch, short tendril right; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.JD40891. Bronze AE 25, Hendin 6436, VF, weight 8.874 g, maximum diameter 24.9 mm, die axis 180o, year 2, 133 - 134 A.D.; obverse "Year 2 of the freedom of Israel", vine leaf on tendril; reverse "Shimon", seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.SH55902. Bronze AE 26, Mildenberg 68 (same dies), Meshorer TJC 260a, Hendin 6436, gVF, weight 10.036 g, maximum diameter 25.9 mm, die axis 180o, year 2, 133 - 134 A.D.; obverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "SMA" (abbreviating Simon), seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; reverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Year 2 of the freedom of Israel", vine leaf on tendril; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.JD97984. Bronze AE 20, Mildenberg 154 (O3/R5); Meshorer TJC 266a; Hendin 6438; SNG ANS 544; BMC Palestine p. 310, 63, VF, burgundy-black-green patina, slightly off center, weight 5.324 g, maximum diameter 19.5 mm, die axis 180o, year 2, 133 - 134 A.D.; obverse paleo-Hebrew inscription "Year 2 of the freedom of Israel", bunch of grapes with branch and small leaf; reverse seven-branched palm tree with two bunches of dates, paleo-Hebrew inscription "Jerusalem" across field divided by trunk; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.JD98004. Bronze AE 23, Mildenberg 110 (O9/R74), Meshorer TJC 292, Hendin 6464, VF, mottled green and black patina with brassy high points, uneven strike, weight 10.122 g, maximum diameter 23.3 mm, die axis 180o, undated, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "for the freedom of Jerusalem", three-lobed grape leaf on a tendril; reverse seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates, paleo-Hebrew inscription "Shimon" (Simon) divided by trunk; SOLD
Judaea, Bar Kochba Revolt, 132 - 135 A.D.
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.JD113056. Bronze AE 25, cf. Mildenberg 53; BMC Palestine p. 308, 48; Sofaer 70; Meshorer TJC p. 250, 260; Hendin 6436 (S), aVF, dark patina, highlighting red earthen deposits, scratch, rev. off center, weight 11.370 g, maximum diameter 24.5 mm, die axis 0o, year 2, 133 - 134 A.D.; obverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "S-M/A" (abbreviating Simon), seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; reverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Year 2 of the freedom of Israel", vine leaf on tendril; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.
Obverse legend:
Reverse inscription: 
SH49486. Bronze AE 20, Mildenberg 159 (O4/R9); BMC Palestine p. 314, 99; Meshorer TJC 302a; Sofaer 169; Hendin 6467, VF, weight 5.644 g, maximum diameter 19.5 mm, die axis 180o, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse Paleo-Hebrew legend counterclockwise from upper left: "For the Freedom of Jerusalem", bunch of grapes with branch and small leaf; reverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Shimon", seven-branched palm tree with two bunches of fruit, Paleo-Hebrew inscription divided by trunk of palm: "Shimon"; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.JD113057. Bronze AE 26, cf. Mildenberg 72; BMC Palestine p. 308, 48; Sofaer 70; Meshorer TJC p. 250, 260; Hendin 6436 (S), F, dark green patina, highlighting earthen deposits, areas of weak strike, pre-strike(?) flan marks, weight 12.580 g, maximum diameter 25.5 mm, die axis 180o, year 2, 133 - 134 A.D.; obverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "S-M/A" (abbreviating Simon), seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; reverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Year 2 of the freedom of Israel", vine leaf on tendril; SOLD
In 134, the Romans captured Jerusalem. Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135, at Betar, a fortress where he had taken refuge. Jerusalem, largely destroyed, was renamed Colonia Aelia Capitolina. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in the city and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple in Jerusalem. Although, resistance continued in Galilee, the Jewish diaspora began as Emperor Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jews remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.
Obverse legend:
Reverse legend: JD91403. Bronze AE 20, Mildenberg, group 3b, 33 (O2/R12); Meshorer TJC 297 (same dies); SNG ANS 584 (same dies); Hendin 6463, VF, toned, light earthen deposits, flan adjustment marks, tiny edge cracks, tight flan, weight 6.625 g, maximum diameter 19.8 mm, die axis 0o, undated, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription counterclockwise from lower right: for the freedom of Jerusalem, upright palm branch within laurel wreath, wreath with four groups of three leaves on each side, a medallion at the top and ribbon ties at the bottom; reverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription counterclockwise from lower right: Shimon, kithara-lyre with a long soundbox and three strings, no horn-like projections on lyre (present on most dies); from the Maxwell Hunt Collection, ex Fairlane Collection; SOLD
In 134, the Romans captured Jerusalem. Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135, at Betar, a fortress where he had taken refuge. Jerusalem, largely destroyed, was renamed Colonia Aelia Capitolina. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in the city and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple in Jerusalem. Although, resistance continued in Galilee, the Jewish diaspora began as Emperor Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jews remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia. SH67295. Bronze AE 24, Mildenberg - (unlisted die combination, O10/R103); Meshorer TJC 289; Hendin 6464, VF, attractive earthen highlighting, weight 9.383 g, maximum diameter 23.5 mm, die axis 0o, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Shimon", seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; reverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "for the freedom of Jerusalem", five-lobed vine-leaf, hanging from curved branch; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.SH28819. Bronze AE 24, Hendin 6436, VF, weight 10.890 g, maximum diameter 24.0 mm, die axis 180o, year 2, 133 - 134 A.D.; obverse "Year 2 of the freedom of Israel", vine leaf on tendril; reverse "Shimon", seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; SOLD
Jerusalem, Judaea, Legio X Fretensis Countermarks, c. 68 - 132 A.D.
| The boar and the galley were emblems of the tenth legion Fretensis. In 66 A.D., Legion X Fretensis moved to Judaea to suppress the revolt. In 68, the Xth destroyed the monastery of Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls originated. In 70, the Xth camped on the Mount of Olives and used war machines to hurl 25 kg stones 400 meters at the ramparts of besieged Jerusalem. After a five-month siege and the horrors of starvation, the city was taken and then completely destroyed. In the autumn of 72, the Xth, auxiliary troops, and thousands of Jewish prisoners erected a wall of circumvallation around Masada, the last Jewish stronghold. The Jewish defenders chose mass suicide before the final assault. After the revolt, the Xth was the sole legion in Judaea and garrisoned at Jerusalem. X Fretensis is recorded to have existed at least until the 410s. |  |
Ascalon, Philistia, Judaea, 76 - 77 A.D., Countermarked by Legio X Fretensis
| In 66 A.D., Legion X Fretensis moved to Judaea to suppress the revolt. In 68, the Xth destroyed the monastery of Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls originated. In 70, the Xth camped on the Mount of Olives and used war machines to hurl 25 kg stones 400 meters at the ramparts of besieged Jerusalem. After a five month siege and the horrors of starvation, the city was taken and then completely destroyed. In the autumn of 72, the Xth, auxiliary troops, and thousands of Jewish prisoners erected a wall of circumvallation around Masada, the last Jewish stronghold. The Jewish defenders chose mass suicide before the final assault. After the revolt, the Xth was the sole legion in Judaea and garrisoned at Jerusalem. X Fretensis is recorded to have existed at least until the 410s. | |
After the defeat of Bar Kochba rebellion, Judea would not be a center of Jewish religious, cultural, or political life again until the modern era, although Jews continued to sporadically populate it and important religious developments still took place there. Galilee became an important center of Rabbinic Judaism, where the Jerusalem Talmud was compiled in the 4th-5th centuries. In the aftermath of the defeat, the maintenance of Jewish settlement in Palestine became a major concern of the rabbinate. The Sages endeavored to halt Jewish dispersal, and even banned emigration from Palestine, branding those who settled outside its borders as idolaters.JD111104. Bronze AE 28, Mildenberg 138 (O11/R102); cf. Meshorer TJC 292a; BMC Palestine p. 312, 80; SNG ANS 572; Hendin 6464, F, uneven strike with some legend unstruck, struck with a broken obv. die, scattered pitting, edge crack, weight 6.748 g, maximum diameter 27.7 mm, die axis 180o, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Shimon", seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; reverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "for the freedom of Jerusalem", five-lobed vine-leaf with strongly accentuated ribs, hanging from curved branch, short tendril right; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.JD28107. Bronze AE 24, Meshorer 291; Hendin 6464; Meshorer AJC II p. 275, 74, gVF, weight 9.221 g, maximum diameter 24.2 mm, die axis 180o, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse "Shimon", seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; reverse "For the freedom of Jerusalem", seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.JD91433. Bronze AE 24, Mildenberg 113 (O10/R77), Meshorer TJC 289; Hendin 6464, Sofaer 141, SNG ANS 566, aVF, tight flan, light corrosion, light deposits, weight 11.837 g, maximum diameter 25.6 mm, die axis 180o, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates, paleo-Hebrew inscription "Shimon" divided by trunk; reverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "for the freedom of Jerusalem", five-lobed vine-leaf, hanging from curved branch; from the Maxwell Hunt Collection; SOLD
The Coinage of the Bar Kokhba War
The definitive reference for Bar Kochba coinage. Mildenberg's exhaustive study established the chronology and the rarity of the Bar Kochba types. BK43848. The Coinage of the Bar Kokhba War (Typos VI) by Leo Mildenberg, 1984, 396 pages, 44 plates, 18 tables, out of print, used, very good condition; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.SH58353. Bronze AE 26, Mildenberg 82 (O7/R46), Meshorer TJC 260a; Hendin 6436, VF, weight 9.784 g, maximum diameter 25.6 mm, die axis 180o, year 2, 133 - 134 A.D.; obverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Shimon", seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; reverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "year two of the freedom of Sirael" (sic), three-lobed vine-leaf, no tendrils; SOLD
In 134, the Romans captured Jerusalem. Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135, at Betar, a fortress where he had taken refuge. Jerusalem, largely destroyed, was renamed Colonia Aelia Capitolina. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in the city and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple in Jerusalem. Although, resistance continued in Galilee, the Jewish diaspora began as Emperor Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jews remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.JD84994. Bronze AE 26, Mildenberg 77; SNG ANS 530; BMC Palestine p. 307, 38; Hendin 6436a; Meshorer TJC 259b, F, uneven strike, small edge crack, porous, weight 7.954 g, maximum diameter 25.6 mm, die axis 180o, year 2, 133 - 134 A.D.; obverse seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates, Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Shimon" flanking trunk; reverse Paleo-Hebrew inscription: "Year 2 of the freedom of Israel", five-lobed vine-leaf, hanging from tendril; SOLD
The Cave of Letters in the Dead Sea area, dubbed as "Bar Kokhba archive," contained letters actually written by Bar Kokhba and his followers. From this we know, either a pronounced part of the Jewish population spoke only Greek or there was a foreign contingent among Bar Kokhba's forces; his military correspondence was, in part, conducted in Greek. Close to the Cave of Letters is the Cave of Horror, where the remains of Jewish refugees from the rebellion were discovered along with fragments of letters and writings.JD40018. Bronze AE 15, Hendin 6438, aVF, weight 2.765 g, maximum diameter 15.4 mm, die axis 180o, year 2, 133 - 134 A.D.; obverse "Jerusalem", seven-branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; reverse "Year 2 of the freedom of Israel", bunch of grapes with branch and small leaf; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt greatly influenced the course of Jewish history and the philosophy of the Jewish religion. Despite easing the persecution of Jews following Hadrian's death in 138, the Romans barred Jews from Jerusalem, except for attendance in Tisha B'Av. Jewish messianism was abstracted and spiritualized, and rabbinical political thought became deeply cautious and conservative. The Talmud, for instance, refers to Bar Kokhba as "Ben-Kusiba" to indicate that he was a false Messiah. It was also among the key events to differentiate Christianity as a religion distinct from Judaism. Although Jewish Christians regarded Jesus as the Messiah and did not support Bar Kokhba, they were barred from Jerusalem along with the other Jews.
Obverse legend:
Reverse inscription: 
JD43769. Bronze AE 22, Mildenberg 158 (O4/R8); BMC Palestine p. 315, 103; Meshorer TJC 302; Sofaer 168; Hendin 6467, VF, ragged flan, weight 3.934 g, maximum diameter 21.7 mm, die axis 0o, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse Paleo-Hebrew legend counterclockwise from upper left: "For the Freedom of Jerusalem", bunch of grapes with branch and small leaf; reverse seven-branched palm tree with two bunches of fruit, Paleo-Hebrew inscription divided by trunk of palm: "Shimon"; ex Amphora Coins (David Hendin); SOLDHadrian, 11 August 117 - 10 July 138 A.D.
The destruction of Jerusalem in the First Jewish War made Caesarea, with a population above 125,000 and the hub of the road network, the economic and political hub of Palaestina. Caesarea was again the marshalling point for the Roman army during the reign of Hadrian for the Bar Kochba War, 132 - 136. Hadrian himself visited the city in 130 and again in 134. Hadrian, like Titus sixty-four years earlier, executed Jewish rebels in the city. By tradition, the condemned including Akiva, a leading Jewish sage and the rabbi who had greeted the rebel leader as the expected Messiah (Yer. Ta'anit, iv. 68d). By Hadrian's time Caesarea's outer harbor had deteriorated badly. The harbor had been wrecked by a tsunami in December 115. Tectonic activity had lowered the ocean floor and sunken parts of the breakwater were causing a hazard to shipping. Another earthquake struck in 132 when urban areas were again severely damaged. Much of the original city, including its celebrated harbor, had to be built anew by Hadrian and his successor Antoninus Pius. At its height the rebuilt city covered an urban area of nearly a thousand acres - almost five-times the size of Jerusalem. -- Kenneth Humphreys RS66913. Silver denarius, RIC II-3 2223, RSC II 966, BMCRE III 680, Hunter II 223, Strack II 251, SRCV II 3507 var. (bare head, slight drapery), VF, weight 3.311 g, maximum diameter 18.6 mm, die axis 180o, Rome mint, 134 - 138 A.D.; obverse HADRIANVS AVG COS III P P, laureate head right; reverse MONETA AVG, Moneta standing slightly left, head left, scales in right hand, cornucopia in left hand; from The Jimi Berlin Caesarea Collection (surface find, Caesarea, Israel, 1972); SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt was a rebellion of the Jews in the Roman province of Judea, led by Simon bar Kokhba, against the Roman Empire. Fought 132 - 135/6 A.D., it was the last of three major Jewish–Roman wars, so it is also known as The Third Jewish–Roman War or The Third Jewish Revolt. Some historians also refer to it as the Second Revolt of Judea, not counting the Kitos War (115 - 117), which had only marginally been fought in Judea.JD47203. Bronze AE 27, Hendin 6436, VF, weight 9.562 g, maximum diameter 26.8 mm, die axis 180o, year 2, 133 - 134 A.D.; obverse Paleo Hebrew: Sma (Shimon), seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates; reverse Paleo Hebrew: Year 2 of the freedom of Israel", vine leaf on tendril; SOLD
The Bar Kokhba revolt erupted as a result of religious and political tensions in Judea following on the failed First Revolt in 66 - 73. These tensions were related the large Roman military presence in Judea, changes in administration and the economy of the province, together with the outbreak and suppression of Jewish revolts from Mesopotamia to Libya and Cyrenaica. The proximate reasons seem to be the construction of a new city, Aelia Capitolina, over the ruins of Jerusalem and the erection of a temple to Jupiter on the Temple Mount. The Church Fathers and rabbinic literature emphasize the role of Rufus, governor of Judea, in provoking the revolt.SH21136. Bronze AE 23, Mildenberg 33 (R12/O2), Meshorer 297b, Hendin 6463, gVF, weight 7.155 g, maximum diameter 22.6 mm, die axis 0o, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse kithara (lyre), incuse letters in right field from clashed dies; reverse palm branch with wreath; SOLD
Vespasian, 1 July 69 - 24 June 79 A.D., Gadara, Decapolis, "Hadrian's Head" Countermark
An interesting coin that relates to both the first and second Jewish revolts. The "Hadrian's head" countermark was applied during the Second Jewish Revolt ("Bar Kochba" uprising) led by Simon Bar Kochba against Rome, 133 - 135 A.D. In 135 A.D., Hadrian destroyed Jerusalem and founded "Aelia Capitolina" on the site. The Jews were dispersed throughout the Roman Empire.RY52176. Bronze AE 24, Spijkerman 26.1a (same countermark), SNG ANS 1300, gF, Syrian patina, weight 10.146 g, maximum diameter 23.9 mm, die axis 0o, Decapolis, Gadara (Um Qais, Jordan) mint, 71 - 72 A.D.; obverse OYECΠACIANOC KAICAP, laureate head right, countermarked with "Hadrian's head"; reverse ΓAΔAPA, Tyche standing left, turreted and veiled, wearing long chiton, raising wreath in right hand, cornucopia in left hand, date LEΛP (year 135) left; scarce; SOLD
Hadrian, 11 August 117 - 10 July 138 A.D.
This type, depicting Nemesis, the avenger of crimes and punisher of wicked doers, likely refers to the final subjugation of the Bar Kochba rebellion which was brutally crushed in the summer of 135 A.D.RS99262. Silver denarius, RIC II-3 2240, RSC II 1454, BMCRE III 757, Strack II 280, SRCV II 3547, Choice gF, centered, toned, flow lines, light scratches, edge ragged with small splits, weight 3.124 g, maximum diameter 18.8 mm, die axis 195o, Rome mint, 136 A.D.; obverse HADRIANVS AVG COS III P P, bare head right; reverse VICTORIA AVG (the victory of the Emperor), Victory-Nemesis walking right, drawing out fold of drapery at neck with right hand to spit on chest, branch downward in left hand; SOLD
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