Coins with a unique design: a treasure from King Alexander has been unearthed in the Jordan Valley (photos included).

In the Jordan Valley, archaeologists have unearthed a treasure of ancient coins that sheds light on a pivotal period in Jewish history. The discovered coins date back to the Hasmonean period, specifically during the reign of Alexander Jannaeus (104-76 BCE), writes Arkeonews.

The treasure, consisting of 160 coins, was found during excavations at an ancient site along the historic route to the fortress of Alexandrium. According to experts from the Zinman Institute of Archaeology at the University of Haifa, this location served as a crucial stop on the ancient trade and tourism network.

The coins, minted in the 25th year of Alexander Jannaeus's reign around 80/79 BCE, feature a distinctive design. One side displays an octagonal star accompanied by the Aramaic inscription "King Alexander, 25th year," while the reverse shows an anchor with Greek inscriptions. Scholars note that such large collections of coins are rarely found during archaeological excavations, making this discovery particularly noteworthy.

Dr. Shay Bar from the Zinman Institute of Archaeology explained that the coins were likely hidden in a leather pouch or a similar organic material that has since decomposed. Other finds at this site included a mikveh (ritual bath), a reservoir, and structures indicating its significance as a strategic and religious site.

Alexander Jannaeus, also known by his Hebrew name Jonathan, was the great-grandson of Mattathias, who played a central role in the revolt against Antiochus IV Epiphanes — an event that led to the rededication of the Jewish temple and the establishment of the Hanukkah festival.

The fortress of Alexandrium, which loomed over the Jordan Valley, was destroyed during the Jewish revolt against Rome (66-74 CE). Efforts are ongoing to preserve and develop the excavation site to make it accessible to the public as part of Israel's archaeological heritage.

We also reported on excavations in Hungary. Archaeologists discovered a cache of weapons that serves as important evidence of military activity in the vicinity of Visegrád.