AI has its limits
Rabbit hole of nonsense today, so consulting actual humans.
Found this in Jerusalem 45 years ago. Just outside Dung Gate in the old city, lying next to the “sidewalk” in a pile of rubble. Great story, but not unique. I keep it with me because it reminds me of my youth
Here are pictures, some annotated pointing at undefined markings.
Chat conclusion: Levantine, Seleucid/provincial, Nabataean-adjacent, or connected to a local cult/religious issue.
Gemeni Conclusion: Seleucid Empire, likely minted during the reign of an Antiochus I Soter (r. 281–261 BC) or Antiochus III the Great (r. 223–187 BC). Origin: The Seleucid Empire (312–63 BC). Context in Israel: Bronze Seleucid coins are common archaeological finds in Israel, often dating to the 2nd century BCE, a period that includes the Maccabean campaign. Some were specifically minted in regional centers like Jerusalem.
Worst case scenario: Someone knows exactly what it is. Mystery solved.
Best case scenario: The folks who know what it is take a back seat to enjoy the speculation, of which I am most certainly a part.