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Auction 8 · Lot 68
Tapered beaker, engraved with linear wreath and geometric decoration, and the Hebrew inscription: “Holy Shekel for Kiddush wine.” Marked on base. H: 75mm.
- Estimate
- $1,200–$1,800
- Hammer price
- $1,900
Historical auction record. Hammer prices exclude buyer’s premium and taxes.
author
SILVER “SHMIRAH” KIDDUSH CUP
Russia, 1908 - 1917; Master: B.M.U.
summary
A Hassidic Rebbe would often reward his faithful disciples with silver coins. In some cases, these coins, which were considered protective, would later be made into Kiddush cups. These, known as Shemirah (guardian) cups, would be engraved with a reference to the Holy Shekel, a coin given to the Temple during its existence in Jerusalem.