Prutah of Alexander Jannaeus c. 103 - 176

Curator: Here we have a Prutah, a coin issued by Alexander Jannaeus, King of Judea. It's a small bronze piece, weighing just over two grams. Editor: It looks ancient, worn smooth by time and touch. Almost like a tiny, weighty story. Curator: Indeed. Coins like this offer fascinating insight into the political and cultural landscape of the Hasmonean kingdom. The imagery, though simple, served as potent propaganda. Editor: I see an anchor, almost like a promise of stability. Curator: Precisely. The anchor, alongside the star, are symbols frequently associated with Jannaeus's reign, reflecting his aspirations for naval power and divine favor. Editor: It's amazing to think about who might have held this, what transactions it facilitated, the sheer volume of history contained in such a small object. Curator: Absolutely. These coins circulated widely and their study allows us to engage with a distant past, to appreciate both the grand narratives and the everyday lives of those who came before us. Editor: I like how the rough edges contrast with the symbolic images. Makes it feel more human, like it's winking at me. Curator: In the end, we gain a sharper understanding of the intersections between power, identity, and belief in the ancient world. Editor: It leaves me feeling grounded somehow, connected to all that came before.