Coins, minted by autonomous Jewish province of the First Persian Empire in late 4th century BC, attested to existence of commercial, administrative life in and around Second Temple and Temple Mount; ‘These were the first coins ever minted by Jews,’ says project’s co-director, adding pilgrims would convert their tithes into these coins. Five rare coins were discovered as part of the Temple Mount Sifting Project. The minute silver coins—three in pristine condition and two worn out—were inscribed with the word “Yehud” in ancient Hebrew script, and are some of the first minted by Jews.
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