ROMAN. Judaea, Bar Kokhba Revolt. Silver Zuz (2.97g), A.D. 132-135. Undated, attributed to Year 3 (A.D. 134/5). 'Shim'on' (Paleo-Hebrew) within wreath of thin branches wrapped around eight almonds, with medallion and tendrils / 'For the freedom of Jerusalem' (Paleo-Hebrew), fluted jug with handle on left; willow branch in right field. Hendin 1422; Mildenberg 89.2 (O15/R58; this coin); TJC 283a. Extremely rare, only three specimens cited by Mildenberg, this being the one selected to illustrate the dies. Wonderfully toned. gVF. The jug and willow branch refer to the water libation ceremony of Sukkot, once performed at the Jerusalem Temple. Struck decades after the Temple?s destruction in A.D. 70, this imagery became a powerful symbol of memory, faith and resistance, recalling a sacred ritual that could no longer be performed while proclaiming the rebels? hope for Jerusalem?s freedom. (P)

Estimate: AUD 1500