Description: Judaea, AE Prutah, Pontius Pilate (29-32 CE)
Obverse: Greek inscription within a laurel wreath. Reverse: Roman lituus (augur’s staff), symbol of the priestly class
History: Pontius Pilate, the Roman prefect of Judaea (26-36 CE), is best known for presiding over the trial and crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth. He was a Roman equestrian knight of the Pontii family, appointed through the influence of Sejanus, a powerful advisor to Emperor Tiberius.
Pilate’s governance was marked by tensions with the Jewish population. He offended their religious beliefs by introducing imperial standards bearing images of the Emperor into Jerusalem and issuing coins featuring pagan symbols. After Sejanus fell from power, Pilate lost his primary political backing. In 36, he was recalled to Rome after suppressing a Samaritan uprising. Many believe he was either exiled or ordered to commit suicide by Emperor Caligula in 39.
The Prutah of Pontius Pilate, minted under Emperor Tiberius, is an important artifact from one of the most pivotal figures in early Christian history.
