Widow’s Mite Bronze Coin - Hasmonean Dynasty, 103–76 BCE

This authentic Widow’s Mite coin is a small bronze prutah minted during the reign of King Alexander Jannaeus (103–76 BCE) of the Hasmonean Dynasty. The obverse typically displays a star within a diadem or a floral motif, symbolizing divine favor, while the reverse features an anchor, a representation of maritime strength and trade, accompanied by an ancient Hebrew inscription.

Famously referenced in the New Testament (Mark 12:41-44), the Widow’s Mite is a powerful symbol of humility and faith, representing the small yet significant offering of a poor widow to the temple treasury. This coin offers a tangible connection to biblical history and the daily life of ancient Judaea, making it a treasured artifact for collectors, historians, and those inspired by its spiritual meaning.

Biblical Significance of the Widow's Mite Coin:

The Widow's Mite holds profound biblical significance, as it is famously referenced in the New Testament in Mark 12:41-44 and Luke 21:1-4. In this passage, Jesus observes a poor widow giving two small coins (mites) as her offering to the temple treasury. Though her contribution was monetarily small, Jesus commends her for giving all she had, emphasizing that her offering was greater than those who gave from their abundance. He states:

"Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on." (Mark 12:43-44, NIV)

The Widow's Mite symbolizes humility, faith, and sacrificial giving, teaching that the value of a gift lies not in its monetary worth but in the heart and sacrifice of the giver. This coin is a tangible connection to this powerful lesson, making it one of the most cherished artifacts for those interested in biblical history and spiritual teachings.

Owning a Widow’s Mite is not only a journey into the economic and cultural realities of ancient Judaea but also a profound reminder of Jesus’ teachings on generosity, faith, and the true meaning of wealth.

103–76 BCE, Hasmonean Kingdom of Judaea

The Widow’s Mite was a widely used small-denomination coin during the Hasmonean period. It is closely associated with the biblical story where Jesus praises the widow who gave her last two coins as an act of true generosity and devotion. These coins were a reflection of the socio-economic realities of Judaea during a time of religious and political transformation.

Metal: Bronze
Type: Prutah (commonly known as the Widow’s Mite)