Widow's Mite Coin Value and History

In the New Testament in the Gospels of Luke and Mark is one of the most famous passages of the  Bible that has come to be known as “the lesson of the widow’s mite." It is about a poor widow who offered two small copper coins in a church’s offering, while people with more money around her made much larger offerings. Continue reading to learn more about the widows mite coin.

When Jesus observed this happening at the Temple of Jerusalem, he said (according to Luke): “Truly, I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them. For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.” The lesson is that it is not how much you give, but why you give, that matters to God and that even a small amount is a huge sacrifice to someone who has very little.

Widow’s Mite Coin

The bronze coins of this story were not described with any detail, leaving it to scholars and numismatists to try to discern what specific coins were offered by the widow. They are widely believed to be what are known as a Lepton (which means small or thin) coins minted by Alexander Jannaeus, King of Judea from 103 to 76 B.C. and the great grand-nephew of King Judah Maccabee. Two Lepta were worth a quadrans, the smallest Roman coin, and a Lepton was the least valuable coin that circulated in Judea.

The term mite, which is used today, did not exist at the time the coins circulated. They only became known as mites many centuries later. The term mite means “small cut piece” in Old Dutch and only came into use in the 14 ^th century in Flanders. It is also used in the King James Bible, which brought the term and  Widow Mite’s story to many millions of people beginning in 1611.

Several types of small bronze pieces were issued during the rule of King Alexander Jannaeus, but the most common ones featured an anchor and a star. Anchors were often featured on coins of the time and for the next century because of the importance of the seacoast cities of the Holy Land areas. These coins were among the first coins struck after Jews were granted authority to issue their own coins by Syrian authorities.

In addition, a Lepton was equal to one-half of a prutah – a small bronze coin about the size of a small fingernail. Lepta (plural for Lepton) were about the same diameter as a prutot (plural for prutah) but were thinner and weighed half as much. It is estimated that their value was equal to that of six minutes of an average daily wage.

During the Maccabean (or Hasmonean) period as this is known, the Greek silver drachma is believed to have been valued at 336 lepta or 168 prutot, while a shekel was worth 384 prutot. And a Roman denarius was worth about 96 prutot.

Of the prutot and lepta issued by Alexander Jannaeus, the most common ones had on their obverse an anchor and “King Alexander” in Greek, while the reverse had a star with 8 rays and sometimes Hebrew letters between the rays or around the rim, which reflected the influence of Greek culture. Researchers believe these small, low value bronze coins circulated widely and were plentiful at the time. They were made about a century before they were allegedly offered by the widow.

Value of Widow’s Mite

For centuries, these coins have been found in the Holy Lands and then sent to other markets to be sold. As a result, many exist in the coin market today. However, most of these small coins do not have very clear details and are worth 

$50 or less despite being so old and having a connection to the Bible. On the other hand, well-preserved examples are more valuable and can be worth as much as $350. Raw or graded examples in  high grade and premium grades for under $100 are a good buy.

Ancient Coins

While ancient coin researchers and experts in other fields mostly agree that the coins known today as Widow’s Mites were likely the issues of Alexander Jannaeus as explained above, it is also possible that one or both of the widow’s coins were foreign coins such as Phoenician bronzes or others.

Because there is no way to be certain what coins they actually were with so many coins from different eras, rulers and kingdoms circulating at the time, NGC decided to extend the Widow’s Mite designation to any small Maccabean bronze coin issued from 135 to 37 B.C.

This decision is supported by David Hendin, author of Guide to Biblical Coins and a curator at the American Numismatic Society, who has noted that while there is a long-standing tradition of the Jannaeus anchor/star coins being considered the Widow’s Mite, this has less to do with actual evidence and more with the fact that since the mid-19 ^th century pilgrims visiting Jerusalem have found these pieces there and brought them back home.

Hendin added: “He adds: “The truth is that any prutah or half-prutah coins of the Maccabees, Herod I and his son Archelaus, or the prefects of Judaea up to the death of Jesus could possibly qualify to have been the ‘Widow’s Mite’.”

These ancient Widow’s Mite coins will always be popular because they are very affordable and were minted more than 2,000 years ago. They also provide a link to the Bible and the time of Jesus.  

FAQ

What is the Widow's Mite coin?

The Widow's Mite is an ancient coin from the time of the New Testament, mentioned in the Bible in the story of the poor widow who gave two small coins, "mites," as an offering. The coin is typically identified as a lepton, a small bronze coin used in Judea.

How much is a Widow's Mite coin worth?

The value of a Widow's Mite coin can vary depending on its condition, authenticity, and historical significance. Typically, they range from $20 to $100, though coins with exceptional provenance or in excellent condition can fetch higher prices.

How can I tell if my Widow's Mite coin is authentic?

Authenticity can be verified by examining the coin’s design, size, and weight against known examples. It’s recommended to have the coin authenticated by a professional grading service or an expert in ancient coins to ensure its legitimacy.

What is the historical significance of the Widow's Mite coin?

The Widow's Mite is historically significant due to its biblical connection. It symbolizes humility, faith, and the idea that the value of a gift is not in its monetary worth but in the spirit of the giver. This story has made the coin a powerful symbol in Christian history.

Where was the Widow's Mite coin used?

The Widow's Mite coin was used in ancient Judea during the time of the Hasmonean dynasty and the early Roman period. It was a small denomination of currency in widespread use among the common people.

How old is the Widow's Mite coin?

The Widow's Mite coins date back to around 100-50 BCE, making them over 2,000 years old. These coins were in circulation during the time of Jesus, which adds to their historical and religious significance.

Why is the Widow's Mite coin important in Christianity?

The Widow's Mite coin is important in Christianity because it is associated with a parable told by Jesus in the New Testament (Mark 12:41-44, Luke 21:1-4). The story emphasizes the value of giving from the heart, even if the material value is small.

Can I still find Widow's Mite coins today?

Yes, Widow's Mite coins can still be found today, particularly through antiquities dealers, coin auctions, and online marketplaces. However, buyers should exercise caution and ensure they are purchasing from a reputable source to avoid fakes.

What does the design on the Widow's Mite coin look like?

The design of the Widow's Mite coin typically features a small star or anchor on one side, often surrounded by a crude border, and a palm branch or a star with an inscription on the other. The design reflects the simple and utilitarian nature of these ancient coins.

How do I preserve a Widow's Mite coin?

To preserve a Widow's Mite coin, store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Use a coin holder or a protective case to prevent handling damage. Avoid cleaning the coin, as this can reduce its historical value.

What is the historical and cultural significance of the Widow’s Mite beyond its mention in the Bible?

The historical and cultural significance of the Widow’s Mite extends beyond its mention in the Bible, resonating deeply within various religious traditions and cultures throughout history. The coin symbolizes humility, faith, and sacrifice, especially within Christian teachings, where it serves as a powerful example of giving from the heart rather than from excess. Over the centuries, the Widow’s Mite has become a cherished artifact for pilgrims and collectors alike, often seen as a tangible connection to the biblical era and the teachings of Jesus. In different cultures, the coin has been revered not just as a relic of the past but as a symbol of piety and moral virtue. Its story has been retold in countless sermons, writings, and religious teachings, emphasizing the moral lesson of true generosity. The Widow’s Mite also holds a place in art and literature, often depicted in religious paintings and referenced in discussions of charity and virtue. Thus, its significance goes beyond its monetary value, representing a moral and spiritual ideal that has transcended time.

How has the market for Widow’s Mite coins evolved over time, and what factors influence their value in today's market?

The market for Widow’s Mite coins has evolved significantly over time, influenced by factors such as historical interest, religious significance, and the condition of the coins. Initially, these coins were valued primarily for their biblical connection, with collectors and pilgrims seeking them as tokens of faith. Over the centuries, as the coin market developed and interest in ancient artifacts grew, the value of Widow’s Mite coins began to reflect not just their age and historical significance but also their condition and rarity. In today’s market, the value of a Widow’s Mite can vary widely. Coins with clear details and minimal wear are more sought after and can command higher prices, sometimes reaching up to $350 or more. On the other hand, more worn or less distinct examples are commonly found and are usually priced much lower, around $50 or less. The market is also influenced by the broader trends in collecting ancient coins, with periods of increased interest driving up prices. Additionally, provenance and authenticity play crucial roles in determining the coin’s value, as collectors are willing to pay more for coins with well-documented histories or those certified by reputable grading services.

What are some common pitfalls or challenges faced by collectors when authenticating and purchasing Widow’s Mite coins?

Collecting and authenticating Widow’s Mite coins presents several challenges and pitfalls, particularly for those new to ancient coins. One of the primary difficulties lies in the authentication process, as the market for ancient coins is rife with forgeries and misidentified pieces. Given the coin’s age and the relatively simple design, it can be challenging to distinguish an authentic Widow’s Mite from a counterfeit, especially for untrained collectors. Another challenge is the misidentification of coins. Since several types of small bronze coins circulated in Judea during the relevant period, not all coins labeled as Widow’s Mites may actually be the coins referred to in the biblical story. Provenance, or the documented history of a coin’s ownership, is also crucial; coins with well-established provenance are generally more valuable and trusted in the market. Without proper provenance, even a genuine coin might be viewed with skepticism. For collectors, it is essential to purchase from reputable dealers and to seek coins that have been graded and authenticated by established numismatic organizations to avoid these common pitfalls.

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