Obj. ID: 40544  Amulet, Ukraine, circa 1800

The following description was prepared by William Gross:

This is an example of a type of inexpensive, easily cast lead amulet that has only recently come to light. The discovery came because of the extensive use of metal detectors by amateur explorers in the FSU, primarily in the Ukraine, where such amulets have been uncovered in both quantity and variety. In the Gross Family Collection there are more than 60 different variations. It is clear that they were a very popular protective talisman, worn by numerous Jewish children.

This round amulet has on the obverse a "Heh" surrounded by a Hebrew inscription that is not clear, but does not appear to be a common one. On the reverse is depicted a large pinwheel which is circled by another Hebrew inscription, also difficult to interpret.

Inscription: "Heh"