Widow’s Mites The Alexander Jannaeus (Hendon numbers 1150, 1151, 1152, & 1153) are the favorites to be called the Widow’s Mites. My belief is that since the anchor and the star are considered Christian symbols—folks like to assume that coins featuring such symbols are the type from the Scriptures. Those who struck the coins were not Christians however and these coins would have been a century+ old during the time of Jesus’ Life on earth. Even so, the Jannaeus lepton and prutah are sold as Widow's Mites. I think that the coins minted during the reign of Valerius Gratus under Tiberius are better candidates. That's okay—I'm willing to continue to call the Jannaeus coins Widow's Mites and use them as examples of the coin when relating the the story in Bible class. I'll also continue to gift them to folks under my care in my family and hospital ministries and my addiction recovery ministry. The Jannaeus coins work fine to raise the spirits of those struggling with life’s burdens.
I, too, love widow's mites, as do the recipients of your thoughtful gifts! This is one of my favorites!
My absolute favourite coin! Valerius Gratus would make sense. Maybe this one? Thanks so much for everything you do, Deacon Ray! Erin
Here is my first, over 30 years ago. Does anyone still have their first? Valerian I, 253 – 260 AD Silver Antoninianus, Rome Mint, 21mm, 3.88 grams Obverse: IMP C LIC VALERIANVS P F AVG, Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust of Valerian right. Reverse: RESTITVT ORIENTIS, The Orient standing on left presenting wreath to Valerian who stands on the right. References: RIC287 Cost: $29 Provenance: Local Antique Show, 1985.
