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Israeli Authorities Seize Ancient Coins from Suspected Smuggler

3/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Israeli authorities seized ancient coins at Hizma checkpoint from a Palestinian doctor suspected of smuggling from the West Bank.
The coins date to the Second Temple period and include silver shekels from the Great Jewish Revolt and bronze coins from the Bar Kokhba Revolt.
Experts say metal detectors proliferating in Israel likely enabled looting.
The Israel Antiquities Authority called for tighter regulation of metal detector sales.

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Story summary

Israeli authorities seized ancient coins at Hizma checkpoint from a Palestinian doctor suspected of smuggling from the West Bank.
The coins date to the Second Temple period and include silver shekels from the Great Jewish Revolt and bronze coins from the Bar Kokhba Revolt.
Experts say metal detectors proliferating in Israel likely enabled looting.
The Israel Antiquities Authority called for tighter regulation of metal detector sales.