US returns two rare, ancient coins to Israel following joint antiquities theft investigation

13/05/2026 newslab

Hasmonean-era coin depicted the seven-branched menorah (L) and silver tetradrachm minted in Ashkelon during the Persian period (R) which were returned to Israel from the United States earlier this week, May 13, 2026. (photo credit: EITAN KLEIN / ISRAEL ANTIQUITIES AUTHORITY)

One of the coins, depicting the Temple’s seven-branched menorah, was minted in Hasmonean-ruled Jerusalem, while the other, the second of its kind ever found, was minted in ancient Ashkelon.

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