Star of Bethlehem Seleucus and Pieria, Antioch Time of Augustus 27 B.C.-A.D. 14, AE 20.7mm 7.31gm, Zeus / Ram running

Star of Bethlehem Seleucus and Pieria, Antioch Time of Augustus 27 B.C.-A.D. 14, AE 20.7mm 7.31gm, Zeus / Ram running

Obv: Laureate head of Zeus right.

Rev: Ram running right looking backward, star above, date below.

Ref: RPC-4269

This Roman provincial bronze coin (RPC-4269) was minted in Antioch, Syria, during the reign of Emperor Augustus. Struck around AD 13/14 (Year 44 of the Actian era), it bears the name of the regional governor, legate Quintus Caecilius Metellus Creticus Silanus.

The coin's history is famous due to an astrological connection.

When Rome deposed Herod’s son in AD 6 and annexed Judaea, the Antioch mint began striking these coins. They served as a calculated piece of political messaging, broadcasting Rome's authority over the territory predicted by the heavens

The Star of Bethlehem, recorded in Matthew 2:1–12, is the biblical celestial sign that guided the Magi to the birthplace of Jesus. Jesus was born between 6 BC and 4 BC. This took place before King Herod the Greats Death in 4 BC. Matthew 2:19, King Herod the Great orders the execution of all male babies is known as the Massacre of the Innocents 2 years and under. Fearing a prophecy brought by the Magi (Wise Men) about a newborn "King of the Jews" Matthew 2:16-18.

Comets: Chinese astronomical records note a bright, slow-moving "Broom Star" or comet in 5 B.C. that remained visible for over 70 days.

Or

Novas or Supernovas: An exploding star recorded by ancient astrologers in 4 B.C. could explain a sudden, intense light visible in the daytime sky.

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Sku# 1894