Agrippa II, 56-95 A.D, Judea Herodian Kings. Medium Bronze Biblical Coin

Description Herod Agrippa II 56-95 A.D Agrippa II, also known as Herod Agrippa II, was the last ruler of the Herodian dynasty, which played a significant role in the history of Judea during the Roman Empire. He was born in 27 or 28 AD, the son of Agrippa I, a close friend of the Roman Emperor Claudius, and ruled over a large portion of Judea. Agrippa II became king at a relatively young age, in 48 AD, after his father’s death. However, due to his youth, the Romans initially placed him under the guardianship of his uncle, Herod of Chalcis, until he was deemed old enough to rule. Agrippa II was eventually granted control over a small kingdom in the northern parts of Judea, including the region of Chalcis, and later expanded to include territories like Batanea, Trachonitis, and Gaulanitis. Agrippa II is best known for his role during the Jewish-Roman War, which erupted in 66 AD. Despite his Jewish heritage, Agrippa was a staunch supporter of Rome and attempted to dissuade the Jewish population from rebelling against Roman rule. His efforts were unsuccessful, and he eventually sided with the Romans during the conflict. As a result, his territories were largely spared the devastation that occurred in other parts of Judea. During his reign, Agrippa II was also responsible for overseeing the administration of the Temple in Jerusalem. He appointed high priests and was involved in various religious and political affairs of the Jewish people. His relationship with the Jewish population was complex; while he was seen as a representative of Roman interests, he also maintained certain Jewish traditions and religious practices. Agrippa II is mentioned in the New Testament (Acts 26), where he is depicted as hearing the case of the Apostle Paul, who was accused of preaching against Jewish law. Agrippa is portrayed as a fair-minded ruler, expressing understanding and sympathy toward Paul, though he ultimately handed him over to the Roman authorities. After the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD, Agrippa II continued to rule his small kingdom until his death around 93 or 100 AD. His death marked the end of the Herodian dynasty, as he left no heirs. Agrippa II’s legacy is one of a ruler caught between the demands of the Roman Empire and the turbulent politics of Judea, attempting to navigate a path that would ensure the survival of his kingdom during a tumultuous period in history.   Obverse: Laureate bust of Domitian r.; inscription (Emperor Domitian Caesar Germanicus). Reverse: Turreted Tyche standing l. on the platform, holding full cornucopia and ears of grain; inscription and date ( year 35, King Agrippa) across fields. Diameter: 25 mm Reference:  Hendin 1298