A rare gold coin depicting Queen Berenice II of Egypt has been discovered in Jerusalem's City of David, marking the first time such an artifact has been found outside Egypt. Minted over 2,200 years ago during the reign of Ptolemy III, the coin features the queen's portrait and a cornucopia symbolizing prosperity. Experts highlight its extraordinary scientific importance, as only about twenty such coins are known and this is the first uncovered in a controlled archaeological excavation. The find challenges previous beliefs about Jerusalem's status after the destruction of the First Temple, suggesting the city was thriving and connected to major cultural centers during the Hellenistic era. The coin will be publicly displayed in September at the City of David Research Conference.

Original article source: https://www.timesofisrael.com/rare-gold-coin-depicting-hellenic-queen-unearthed-in-jerusalem-dig/
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