What's Happening?
The Israel Antiquities Authority has announced the discovery of a gold coin featuring Queen Berenice II of Egypt during excavations in Jerusalem. The coin was found in the 'City of David' excavation site, under the former Givati parking lot. This is the first time a coin depicting Berenice has been found outside of Egypt, where about 20 such coins have been previously discovered. The coin, identified as a quarter-drachma, dates back to around 240 B.C.E. during the reign of Berenice's husband, Ptolemy III Euergetes. The coin's discovery provides insights into the historical connections between Jerusalem and the Ptolemaic Empire.
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Why It's Important?
The discovery of the Berenice coin in Jerusalem is significant as it sheds light on the historical ties between the city and the Ptolemaic Empire. It suggests that Jerusalem may have had a more prominent status during the Ptolemaic rule than previously thought. The coin's presence indicates possible economic or political interactions between the local authorities in Jerusalem and the Ptolemaic rulers. This find also contributes to the understanding of the circulation and use of currency in ancient times, particularly in regions under Hellenistic influence.
What's Next?
Further analysis of the coin and its context within the excavation site may provide additional insights into the historical period and the nature of Jerusalem's interactions with the Ptolemaic Empire. Archaeologists and historians may continue to explore the implications of this discovery for understanding the broader historical and economic landscape of the region during the Hellenistic period.
