The Geographical Distribution of Mattatya (Mattathias) Antigonos’ Coins: New Insights from Recent Discoveries

Abstract

An updated distribution list of coins minted by Mattatya (Mattathias) Antigonos includes 69 recently discovered specimens not yet published. Analysis of the list reveals that the coins circulated widely in the Hasmonean-Herodian kingdom — including regions explicitly identified by Josephus as zones of conflict between the king’s forces and Herod’s troops, as well as areas beyond those mentioned in his account. The expanded dataset not only corresponds with Josephus’ descriptions of key centers of resistance but also indicates that opposition to Herodian rule among the Judean population may have been more geographically widespread than his biased narrative reflects.