Lot 3389

Description

Palestine, Roman Procurator of Judaea, Pontius Pilate, under Tiberius, (A.D. 26-36), copper prutah, (3.092 grams), obv. three bound ears of barley, partial legend around, IOY**LIA* KAICAPOC, rev. Libation ladle (simpulum) legend and date around, TIBEPIO[Y KAICA]POC LIS, date LIS (year 16 = A.D.29), (S.5622, H. 648 [113], AJC II Supplement V, No.21, Meshorer 229). Weak in places, slightly off centred, otherwise very fine, scarce.

Ex Noble Numismatics Auction Sale 66 (lot 3478). Of immense Biblical interest. The simpulum is a small ladle with a handle which was used during sacrifices to make libations and to enable the celebrants to taste the wine which was later poured over the head of the animal offering. Specifically, it was the sign of the priesthood.