"Hanukkah Miracle": Rare Ancient Coin Hoard Discovered in Israel
A remarkable discovery of ancient coins has been made by Israeli
researchers, with the find being hailed as an "archaeological Hanukkah
miracle." The collection of approximately 160 coins, dating back over 2,000
years, is believed to belong to King Alexander Jannaeus, the second ruler of
the Hasmonean dynasty. This dynasty governed Judea during the final
centuries before the Common Era.
The hoard was uncovered during ongoing excavations in the Jordan Valley, a region that lies between the Israeli-occupied West Bank and Jordan. The project is led by the University of Haifa's researchers in collaboration with the Zinman Institute of Archaeology. These coins were found on the third day of Hanukkah, adding an extra layer of significance to the find, as Alexander Jannaeus' reign connects to a revolt in 167 B.C.E., which the Talmud credits with the restoration of the Jerusalem temple and the first celebration of Hanukkah.
Each of the coins features inscriptions in Aramaic, including an eight-pointed star and the phrase "King Alexander 25." These coins are believed to date back to about 80 B.C.E. The discovery site, which researchers had not recognized as a way station before, includes a purification bath and water storage, suggesting it was an important location during the reign of Alexander Jannaeus.
The discovery was made with the involvement of students and volunteers, who were especially thrilled by the find during the Hanukkah holiday. The researchers hope the site will become an important archaeological and heritage destination, attracting future visitors. Hanukkah, which began on December 25, continues until January 2.
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