27 B.C. - A.D. 14 Augustus Silver Tetradrachm, Tyche, Year 29

Here's a scarce silver Tetradrachm of Augustus hand struck in the provincial city of Antioch. Depicting Ancient Rome's celebrated first emperor, who reigned from 27 B.C. to A.D. 14, this coin also honors Antioch with its reverse.

These legendary coins of biblical times were minted near the time when Jesus was believed to have been born. Weighing about 15 grams and containing over 75% silver, these large attractive pieces were among the most prominent coins used to pay the hated temple tax. The emperor's portrait is surrounded by a Greek inscription: "Caesar Augustus." The reverse shows the goddess Tyche – symbol and deity of ancient Antioch. Usually these turn up one or two at a time but fortunately we have a small supply – get one of the most famous coins of biblical and Roman times!