Gold pendant (14 ct) with original silver denarius of Augustus, 27 B.C.E - 14 C.E. – “Tribute Penny”.

Gold pendant (14 ct) with original silver denarius of Augustus, 27 B.C.E - 14 C.E. – “Tribute Penny”.

The story of the Tribute penny is one of the best known in the New Testament:

          “Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s” (Matthew 22:21).

It is generally accepted in the numismatic fraternity that the coin referred to is a denarius of Tiberius who reigned from 14-37 CE, or if you wish during the ministry of Jesus. However, the vast majority of Roman denarii from the lifetime of Jesus found in Israel are those of Augustus. Therefore, it has to be an open question as to which coin the scriptures refer.

The obverse of each coin is quite similar either the portrait of Augustus or Tiberius facing right with a surrounding inscription detailing the Emperor's titles. The reverse of the common Augustan denarius has Gaius and Lucius Caesar standing facing with spears and shields between them.

The reverse of the Tiberius denarius has a female figure seated facing right holding a scepter and branch.

Size: 3.1 X 2.2 centimeter approximately.

Total weight (the pendant and the coin): 8.2 grams approximately.

The item includes an elegant certificate of authenticity.

DESCRIPTION

A silver denarius of Augustus, 27 B.C.E - 14 C.E.

Obv: Laureate head of Emperor r.

Rev: Caius and Lucius Caesars standing facing, holding shields and spears between them; simpulum and lituus above. 3.64 grams; 1.95 cm. diam.

Far more denarii of Augustus have been found in controlled excavations in Israel, making this coin a candidate for the title of “Tribute Penny”.

Weight:	8.2 gr
Measurement:	2.2 x 3.1 cm