Lot 3104
Judaea, Herodian Kingdom. Herod of Chalcis. Æ25 (15.72 g), 43/4 CE. RY 3 (43/4 CE), BASI?EYS HPO?HS FILOK?AY?IOS, diademed head of Herod of Chalcis right. Reverse: K?AY?IO KAISA/PI SE[BAS]/TO E[T G] in four lines within wreath (for Claudius Caesar Augustus year 3). Hendin 1252; TJC 362; Sofaer 362; RPC 778. Attractive dark brown patina with some greenish highlights. Very Rare. One of the most important rarities in the Judaean series. Very Fine. Estimate Value $7,500 - UP
From the Dr. Patrick Tan Collection.
In A.D. 41 the Judaean King Herod Agrippa petitioned the emperor Claudius to appoint his younger brother, also named Herod, king of Chalcis, in Coele-Syria. Claudius granted the request, and because of his kingship, this Herod is familiarly known as Herod of Chalcis.
The fact that a Herodian was appointed king in a non-Jewish land well north of Judaea shows the depth of support that Claudius offered this family. The Herodians showed their gratitude in many ways, including with coin designs intended to flatter their imperial benefactor.
On this rare bronze, the portrait of Herod of Chalcis is accompanied by an inscription that describes himself as a "friend of Claudius" or as "one with whom Claudius is friendly." Similarly, the reverse inscription "for Claudius Caesar Augustus" is dedicated to the emperor in Rome; the date, year three, at the end of the inscription indicates it was struck in A.D. 43/4.
When Herod Agrippa died in A.D. 44, his younger brother's authority was enlarged: Claudius granted Herod of Chalcis superintendence over the Temple in Jerusalem, which earlier had fallen under his brother's jurisdiction. This included authority over the Temple Treasury and the responsibility of appointing chief priests.
However, Herod of Chalcis continued to perform his duties until his own death about four years later.
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| Realized $5,280 |
