Half Sheckel Coin, Ancient Coin

Half Sheckal Coin Ancient Pewter Reproduction about 1 inch. Laws of Shekalim 1:5) that the half shekel mentioned in the Bible – the annual contribution every Jew gave in Jesus time. was required to give to the Temple coffers – is equal to 160 grains of barley, which, in modern measurements, would be approximately eight grams of silver. While the Temple was standing, every Jewish man was required to give one half-shekel weight of silver, approximately eight grams of silver (worth about $4 today), as a mandatory tax to support the Temple. Each man was obligated to give the same amount, regardless of his economic condition. The coins, once deposited in the Temple courtyard, were sanctified and not permitted to be used for any other purpose.