Title
Jerusalem: Coin of 'Jonathan the King' (Alexander Jannaeus)
Description
A typical coin struck by the Hasmonaean (Maccabean) king Alexander Jannaeus (ruled from 103-76 BCE). The symbol on the left is an anchor and the symbol on the right is a lily flower, which was a symbol for Jerusalem. The inscription around the anchor is in Greek, whereas the inscription on the other side, around the flower is in Hebrew, written in the ancient Iron Age script. Jannaeus is referring to himself with the title "King." All of the other Hasmonaean rulers called themselves 'High Priest' instead of "King." The coin reflects both the process of hellenization and the effort of the Hasmonaeans to maintain strong ties with the ancient ethos of Israel.
Location Modern Country
Israel/Palestine
Location City
Jerusalem