The tribute penny is not a penny or a cent coin like the pocket change you may have right now, although it is a coin of biblical importance. Known as a denarius during Emperor Tiberius’s reign, this coin plays a central role in one of the most famous biblical accounts. Today, the tribute penny remains a symbol of the intersection between history, religion, and numismatics, captivating collectors and scholars alike.
Historical Background of the Tribute Penny
The tribute penny’s historical context provides greater insight into its role in the Roman economy and the biblical narrative.
Roman Coinage
Coins of the Roman Empire were well-organized during Tiberius’ reign. The denarius, a small silver coin, was the primary currency for transactions and taxation. It symbolized the stability and reach of Roman financial systems, as they facilitated commerce throughout vast territories.
Emperor Tiberius
Tiberius was the second emperor of Rome. He ruled from 14 to 37 CE and played a pivotal role in shaping the coinage of the Roman Empire. His coins emphasized themes of peace and stability, which reflected his administrative priorities. A denarius bearing Tiberius’ portrait, known today as the tribute penny, became one of the most recognized coins of his reign.
Biblical Account and Symbolism
The tribute penny is associated with Jesus discussing the payment of taxes to the Roman Empire in the books of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. The incident took place when Jesus was questioned by the Pharisees and Herodians and centers on a denarius that bore the image of the Roman Emperor Tiberius.
They asked Jesus was whether it was lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, a query designed to lure him into making a politically dangerous statement. Jesus’ response, “Render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s, and unto God what is God’s,” has since become a cornerstone of discussions on the relationship between religious and secular obligations.
The coin used in this account symbolized more than its monetary value. Its depiction of the emperor emphasized Roman authority and divinity, highlighting the tension between civic duty and religious faith. By asking whose image and inscription were on the coin, Jesus emphasized the importance of respecting both earthly and spiritual authorities.
Biblical Coin Identification
The Greek text of the Gospels uses the term “dēnarion” to describe the coin in the story about taxation and tithing. Most scholars agree that the coin shown to Jesus would have been a Roman denarius featuring the head of Emperor Tiberius. In terms of purchasing power, the denarius was equivalent to a day’s wage for a laborer during Jesus’ time.
The term “penny” appeared in English Bible translations in the 1480s. Later, Tyndale’s 1526 printed New Testament retained the term, aligning it with the contemporary English silver penny, which was also dime-sized and equivalent to a day’s pay. The King James Version further popularized this terminology.
Debates persist regarding the coin’s exact identity. Alternatives such as the Antiochan tetradrachm or coins of Augustus, Julius Caesar, Mark Antony, and Germanicus have been suggested. However, the denarius of Tiberius remains the most widely accepted identification due to its prevalence and alignment with the description.
Design and Features of the Tribute Penny
Obverse Design
The obverse features Tiberius’s laureated head facing right, with the inscription “TI CAESAR DIVI AVG F AVGVSTVS,” meaning “Tiberius Caesar, Son of the Divine Augustus, Augustus.”
Reverse Design
The reverse depicts a seated female figure holding a scepter and a branch. Scholars have debated the identity of this figure, which may represent Livia (wife of Augustus and Tiberius’ mother), Pax (the Roman goddess of peace), or a generic priestess. The inscription on the reverse reads “PONTIF MAXIM,” or “Chief High Priest,” emphasizing the religious aspect of Tiberius’s rule.
Legacy and Modern Interest
The tribute penny holds immense value for collectors and historians alike. Authentic denarii from Tiberius’ reign are prized artifacts that offer a tangible connection to the ancient world. It remains a powerful symbol in religious teachings, art, and literature. It highlights themes of authority, responsibility, and faith and continues to inspire reflection on the interplay between secular and divine obligations.
Biblical coins, including the tribute penny, are a popular gateway for many into the ancient coin hobby. For some collectors, owning a coin mentioned in the Bible serves as a tangible connection to the past, while others are drawn to the controversies and unresolved questions surrounding specific coins. Despite debates over which coin was the true “Tribute Penny,” the denarius of Tiberius remains the most iconic representation.
