Currency
The ancient coins have inscriptions and images of an eight-pointed star. Source: facebook.com/HaleviTeacher
Researchers in Israel have discovered a rare treasure trove of ancient coins dubbed the "archaeological miracle of Hanukkah." According to the University of Haifa, the find is over 2000 years old.
The hoard of about 160 coins was found during excavations in the Jordan Valley, which runs between the Israeli-occupied West Bank and Jordan's eastern border. Archaeologists believe the collection belonged to King Alexander Jannaeus, the second ruler of the Hasmonean dynasty, which led Judea in the last centuries BC, CBSNews reports.
The ancient coins were found on the third day of Hanukkah. The researchers noted the importance of this time, as Alexander the Great was one of the leaders of the 167 B.C. revolt, which, according to the Talmud, led to the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem and the first celebration of Hanukkah.
"It is indeed a rare moment to discover so many coins," said Shai Bar, one of the excavation leaders. He added that the findings show the important role of the site. The fortress, which overlooks the Jordan Valley, was destroyed at some point during the Jewish revolt against Rome (66-74 AD).
Each coin has an eight-pointed star and the phrase "King Alexander 25" written in Aramaic. It is known to be one of the oldest languages in the world, which originated in the region around modern Syria and is closely related to Arabic and Hebrew. According to the University of Haifa, coins of this type date back to about 80 BC.
Such large collections of coins are rare in archaeological research, Arkeonews reports. According to Dr. Bar, the coins were probably hidden behind or inside the wall and wrapped in organic material that later decomposed.
At the excavation site, the researchers found not only a cache of coins. The archaeologists found a previously unknown road station on the way to the Herodium fortress, along with a ritual bath, a water tank, and several other structures along the banks of the Jordan River Valley.
Shay Bar expressed hope that the site of the valuable coins will become attractive to tourists and will be added to Israel's archaeological and heritage sites.
It should be reminded that the Israeli Hanukkah holiday began on December 25 and is celebrated for eight days.
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