Mildenberg 310, 49.  Hendin, 3rd edition 1996  Bar Kochbar 708.

1986.08

Bronze coin (Æ 25) issued by Jews in Second Jewish War (Bar Kochba Revolt)

10.36g. 23mm. AD 134-135

Obv.: Seven-branched palm tree with two bunches of dates, Hebrew across field below (Simon)

Rev.: Vine leaf on tendril, Hebrew probably around (Year two of the freedom of Israel)

The Bar Kochbar Revolt probably arose because of a combination of factors: Hadrian proclaimed that he would rename and rebuild Jerusalem as Aelia Capitolina; he forbade castration of males and, ignorant of Jewish customs, included circumcision in this crime punishable by death. Also at this time many Jews remained preoccupied with regaining Jerusalem and rebuilding the Temple.

Simon Bar Kochbar was the military leader of the revolt and has gained legendary status as a great warrior.  He is said to have caught enemy missiles from catapults and hurled them back, killing many of the foe, and to have tested the bravery and strength of his men by cutting off a part of their little fingers. 

The period was likely one of severe economic and political stress for the Jewish nation and all of the coins struck by Simon Bar Kochbar were overstruck on contemporary issues circulating in Israel at the time, thus avoiding an expensive casting operation.  In general the bronze coins were struck upon local city coins such as Ascalon, Gaza and Caesarea, and rarely, an imperial portrait or a few letters from the original coin remain. 

Minting coins was as important to Bar Kochbar as it was to any nation wishing to make a public statement about its strength and sovereignty.  Bar Kochbar coins also carried slogans and symbols that added greatly to the morale of his followers. 

Mildenberg 310, 49.  Hendin, 3rd edition 1996  Bar Kochbar 708