Hellenistic counterweight found in Jerusalem

[guy]

 

An ancient counterweight to assure accuracy in commercial transactions has been found in Jerusalem. It dates from 147-148  BCE.

The date indicated on the counterweight was 165 BCE of the Seleucid Era.

 

Article summary:

🕵️‍♂️ Discovery & Context A rare lead weight from the Hellenistic period, dated to 147–148 BCE, was recovered in Jerusalem during an operation by the Israel Antiquities Authority’s Unit for the Prevention of Antiquities Theft. It was found in an antiquities shop following intelligence efforts.

📜 Inscription & Historical Significance The artifact features a Greek inscription: “Heliodorus son of Apollonius, agoranomos,” referring to a market overseer responsible for regulating weights and measures to prevent fraud. The names imply connections to Greek sun gods, indicating cultural Hellenization in the region.

⚖️ Precision & Symbolism The weight is highly accurate—equivalent to one mina (100 Greek drachmas)—and features a dolphin illustration. Researchers believe this symbol could help identify the artifact’s city of origin, as ancient cities often used distinct emblems.

 

https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/08/19/jerusalem-2150-old-dolphin-artifact-found-in-special-operation/

 

 

Edited August 21, 2025 by guy