SHIMON BAR KOCHBA AR ZUZ, SECOND JEWISH REVOLT
Mildenberg 194, Hendin 6460var, Very Fine, ancient piercing, 17.9mm, 2.48 grams, Struck Circa. 134/135 C.E.
Obverse: Cluster of grapes, flanked by name SHIMON
Reverse: To the freedom of Jerusalem inscribed around a fluted jug, handle on left and willow branch on right
Lest you consider this coin to be unattractive, it is exactly the way it was meant to be. See additional page above from Meshorer's book detailing the ancient practice of piercing these coins for jewelry.
The coins of Bar Kokbha were no longer valid after his defeat by the Romans. Coins that were not melted down were often pierced for use as jewelry or amulets. In fact, prior to the great hoard discoveries beginning in the 19th century, a large number of the extant Zuzim of Bar Kokhba were those that survived above ground. They were kept even after the catastrophic war, such as these sentimental pieces. This is a coin that is literally not only part of the Bar Kokhba war but of subsequent Jewish history!
Ex: VJM Collection, NJ Purchased from Superior, 1995
