The stater was a widely circulated silver coin in the Hellenistic world, normally valued at four drachmae. In the eastern Mediterranean—especially in Tyre—it functioned as the rough equivalent of the Jewish shekel (Exodus 30:13). Weights varied slightly by mint, but a Tyrian stater averaged about fourteen grams of high-purity silver, making it acceptable for the annual temple offering in Jerusalem. Because of its reliability, Jewish pilgrims preferred the stater to other coinage when meeting cultic obligations.

Occurrence in the New Testament

The term appears once, in Matthew 17:27, where Jesus directs Peter:

“‘But so that we may not offend them, go to the sea, cast a hook, and take the first fish you catch. When you open its mouth, you will find a four-drachma coin. Take it and give it to them for My tax and yours.’” (Berean Standard Bible)

The setting is Capernaum, where collectors of the two-drachma temple tax approach Peter (Matthew 17:24). A single stater exactly covers the levy for two men, underlining Jesus’ precise provision.

Old Testament Parallels and Septuagint Usage

In the Greek Old Testament (Septuagint) the stater often renders the Hebrew “shekel,” for example Genesis 23:15-16, Exodus 21:32 and Leviticus 27:3. This background illuminates the Gospel scene: Jesus uses the same denomination historically associated with sanctuary dues, linking His act to the long-standing covenant practice established in Exodus 30:11-16.

Theological and Ministry Significance

1. Divine Knowledge and Sovereignty

Jesus foreknows the exact coin in a specific fish, demonstrating authority over nature and finances alike (cf. Psalm 24:1).
2. Voluntary Humility

Though as Son of God He is greater than the temple (Matthew 12:6), He still pays the tax “so that we may not offend them,” modeling submission to legitimate obligations without compromising His identity.
3. Substitutionary Provision

One coin pays for two people, prefiguring the singular sufficiency of Christ’s atonement (Hebrews 9:12).
4. Support for Temple Worship

By endorsing the tax, Jesus affirms the ongoing validity of temple ministry until His sacrificial work is complete, maintaining continuity within salvation history.

Symbolic and Prophetic Echoes

The miracle anticipates the soon-coming Passion: just as an unexpected coin satisfies a ceremonial debt, so Christ’s forthcoming sacrifice will settle humanity’s true debt of sin (Isaiah 53:5). The fish, a later Christian symbol for Jesus, further ties the episode to the Gospel’s core message of redemption.

Lessons for Christian Stewardship and Witness

• Trust God for material needs; He can supply from unforeseen sources (Philippians 4:19).
• Meet civil and religious responsibilities conscientiously, avoiding unnecessary offense (Romans 13:7).
• Recognize that financial integrity strengthens gospel credibility; Peter’s prompt compliance displays obedience that complements proclamation.

Thus the lone New Testament reference to the stater opens a window on first-century economics, Old Testament continuity, and the Messiah’s character, all converging to affirm the comprehensive faithfulness of God revealed in Jesus Christ.