Finding a meaningful gift for a pastor, mentor, or parent can be difficult at times. Zak’s Antiquities has many artifacts that will make incredible gifts that will be prized for generations to come – like a coin from the era of Christ.

This coin was minted during Pontius Pilate’s rule between 26-36 A.D. This is the same Pilate that Jesus stood on trial before where he was then turned over to the people to be crucified. This was the coin used for daily purchases in the midst of these historical events. On one side of the coin was pagan symbols; either the lituus (a wand used by an augur for divination), or a libation ladle (used for libation offerings to pagan deities). The inscription around the outside of the coin reads, “of Tiberias Caesar,” the emperor during that time. The reverse of the coin has a wreath on the outside with the year in the center (LIS = 29/30 A.D., LIZ = 30/31 A.D., LIH = 31/32 A.D.).

Today, these coins can be a physical reminder of the life and ministry of our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus stood before Pilate and yielded his will in order to obey his Father’s plan to save the world. Jesus willingly was crucified to pay the penalty for our sins, yet He did not remain in death. God raised him to life on the third day and Jesus now sits at the right hand of God, interceding for us. As Easter approaches, what better gift to give your loved one than a coin that remembers the love and sacrifice of our Lord and Savior?

When morning came, all the chief priests and elders of the people plotted against Jesus to put Him to death. And when they had bound Him, they led Him away and delivered Him to Pontius Pilate the governor. (Matthew 27:1-2)

These coins are great gifts that can be passed down from one generation to the next. As you consider what to give your friend, pastor, parent, or mentor this Easter season, consider a gift that could have a lasting and eternal impact. Gifts like these coins are great conversation starters. What better way to share the gospel with someone than to show them a piece of history from the time of Jesus himself?