The coins shown are representative examples of the grade and type, but not the actual specimens for sale. For details on NGC’s grading standards and definitions, please refer to our NGC Grading page.
This small bronze coin was issued under the authority of Valerius Gratus during his tenure as Roman prefect of Judaea province under Emperor Tiberius. These modest coins would have circulated throughout Judaea for everyday transactions during this historically significant period, which overlapped with the early ministry of Jesus of Nazareth.
Coin Description:
Front side: Features a palm branch, likely with an inscription referencing Emperor Tiberius or the year of his reign
Back side: Displays a wreath, possibly with additional inscriptions identifying the coin's origin
Technical Details:
Bronze composition
Prutah denomination (small bronze coin for everyday transactions)
NGC certified (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)
Minted between 15-26 CE during Gratus' prefecture
Condition: Housed in NGC slab, specific grade not provided
Historical Significance: This coin represents Roman provincial administration during a pivotal period in Judaean history. Valerius Gratus served as prefect for eleven years, an unusually long tenure that brought relative stability to the region. He is historically significant for frequently changing the Jewish high priesthood, eventually appointing Joseph Caiaphas who would later play a role in the trial of Jesus according to the New Testament accounts. Gratus' governance occurred during the early years of Jesus' life and ministry, connecting this humble coin to one of history's most influential religious movements.
The coins shown are representative examples of the grade and type, but not the actual specimens for sale. For details on NGC’s grading standards and definitions, please refer to our NGC Grading page.
This small bronze coin was issued under the authority of Valerius Gratus during his tenure as Roman prefect of Judaea province under Emperor Tiberius. These modest coins would have circulated throughout Judaea for everyday transactions during this historically significant period, which overlapped with the early ministry of Jesus of Nazareth.
Coin Description:
Front side: Features a palm branch, likely with an inscription referencing Emperor Tiberius or the year of his reign
Back side: Displays a wreath, possibly with additional inscriptions identifying the coin's origin
Technical Details:
Bronze composition
Prutah denomination (small bronze coin for everyday transactions)
NGC certified (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)
Minted between 15-26 CE during Gratus' prefecture
Condition: Housed in NGC slab, specific grade not provided
Historical Significance: This coin represents Roman provincial administration during a pivotal period in Judaean history. Valerius Gratus served as prefect for eleven years, an unusually long tenure that brought relative stability to the region. He is historically significant for frequently changing the Jewish high priesthood, eventually appointing Joseph Caiaphas who would later play a role in the trial of Jesus according to the New Testament accounts. Gratus' governance occurred during the early years of Jesus' life and ministry, connecting this humble coin to one of history's most influential religious movements.
