The stater and the drachma

In the first century in Israel, several types of coins were in circulation, reflecting the cultural and political influences of the time. Here is some information on the main coins used:

Drachma

The drachma was a common silver coin. It was used not only in Greece but also in the regions under Greek rule, including Israel. A drachma was equivalent to about 4.3 grams of silver.

Prutah (or Lepton)

The prutah, also called the lepton, was a small bronze coin. It was often used for transactions of low value. The prutah was minted under the authority of the Roman — show definition INF004 procurators, such as Antonius Felix and Coponius.

Stater

The stater was a gold or silver coin, used mainly for larger transactions. Its value generally varied between two and twenty-eight drachmas.

Roman denarius

The denarius was a Roman silver coin, used for everyday transactions. It is often mentioned in the Gospels, as in the parable — show definition INF181 of the talents.

These coins reflect the diversity of economic and cultural influences in Israel in the first century, with local coins and Roman coins existing side by side.