Coins as Cultural Texts in the World of the New Testament by D. H. Wenkel (review)

David Wenkel provides the reason for writing this book in the second paragraph of his Introduction: “This volume will provide an introduction to the relationships between numismatics and New Testament studies” (xii). He rightly notes that most theological students receive little instruction in the material culture of the NT because the academic disciplines of archaeology, classical studies, and biblical studies are often isolated from each other; NT scholars often feel ill-equipped to teach about specialised fields like numismatics, and text-based curricula in theological institutions provide few opportunities for lectures on topics of material culture. Wenkel provides ten compelling reasons why the study of ancient coins is beneficial for students of the NT (xix–xx), then notes four limitations of the scope of his study (xxi). The volume thus appeals to a niche audience interested in learning more about the topic.

The book comprises fifteen chapters in four sections. The four opening chapters deal with coins as cultural texts, as speech-acts, as currency and as context. The explanation of the Roman and Jewish currency systems nicely introduces the nine types or denominations of coins mentioned in the NT. A chart presenting these nine types and their values would have been a useful visual addition. Section I addresses “The World in Front of the Coin” by looking at payments in antiquity through the lens of trust, fear and taxes. Sections II and III look at “The World of the Coin” and “The World Behind the Coin,” respectively, through two lenses: propaganda and power. Jewish and Roman coinage provide examples for Wenkel’s discussions. Chapters 5–15 each close with a section, “Implications for Studying the New Testament,” which seeks to contextualise the discussion for readers. Section IV (chapter 16) is a mere four-page conclusion that presents fifteen connections between numismatics and NT studies. A one-page appendix of “Events related to First-Century Numismatics” and a Bibliography close the volume.

Seven illustrations accompany the text. Since coins are such visual objects, more would have been welcome. A glossary of abbreviations would likewise have been helpful. Missing too is a section recommending further resources to help readers take the next step. For coins of Asia Minor, I regularly consult the websites www.wildwilds.com and www.asiaminorcoins.com. Macquarie University’s website on “The Coinage of Ephesus” nicely presents this city’s numismatic history. Other volumes that are helpful with numismatics and the NT are The Pocket Guide to Saint Paul by Peter Lewis and Ron Bolden (2002). The coins that Paul would have encountered on his travels are presented in chronological order. The British Museum exhibition catalogue, Defacing the Past: Damnation and Desecration in Imperial Rome by Dario Calomino (2016), presents coins and inscriptions that illustrate the fascinating topic of damnatio memoriae among Roman emperors.

Coins continue to generate universal interest and excitement. I collected them myself as a youth. Recently I travelled with an American doctor whose passion is collecting ancient coins with a biblical connection. He became animated while speaking about his collection and graciously presented me several of his duplicates. Ancient coins create such enthusiasm but, unfortunately, this book with its pedantic style does little to excite the reader and collector. Nevertheless, it provides a basic introduction to the subject. However, its high price will deter many libraries and potential readers from purchasing it.