Joppa Mint 255, 254 BC, Ptolemy II, Philadephus

The above coin was minted near modern day Tel Aviv after the 255 BC solar eclipse. The dot in the circle on the reverse is likely representative of this solar eclipse. The second Syrian War (260-253 BC) between Ptolemy II and Antiochus II was drawing to an end at the time of this solar eclipse. Ptolemy II initiated the Greek translation of the 5 books of Moses. The Septuagint opened Hebrew scripture to the Greek speaking work. If Antiochus II would have beaten Ptolemy II, the books of Moses may not have been made available to the gentile world. We do not know how each side may have interpreted the 255 BC solar eclipse other than second Syrian War ended shortly thereafter. Photo Civitas Galleries