Ancient Cypriot Coin Found on Ashdod Beach Highlights Historical Trade Links
A rare silver coin from the mid-5th century BCE was discovered on a beach in Ashdod, Israel. The coin, originating from the ancient city of Salamis in Cyprus, was found by Avi Chaprak, deputy director of the Ashdod Beaches Department. Upon discovery, the coin was handed over to the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) for examination. The coin, weighing about 11 grams, is plated with silver, a common practice in Cypriot coins due to a silver shortage. It features a reclining ram and a ram's head, with Cypriot syllabic script. This find is the first of its kind in Israel and offers insights into ancient trade and maritime connections between Cyprus and Israel.