Kids Find 2,000-Year-Old Coins in West Bank Cave

Imagine being a kid and finding treasure that's been hidden for 2,000 years.

That's exactly what happened to the grandchildren of U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee during a family trip to the West Bank. Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, her husband, and their children were exploring a previously unknown cave near the community of Na'ela when their metal detectors started beeping.

The children, accompanied by professional archaeologists, unearthed five ancient coins that may date back to the Bar Kokhba Revolt between 132 and 135 A.D. Their excited screams echoed through the cave as they realized what they'd found.

"Grandpa, look what we found!" the children shouted, according to Israeli news agency TPS-IL. The discovery was announced by the Yesha Council, an umbrella organization for Jewish communities in the region.

The family had been touring the area as part of a visit to Shiloh, the ancient biblical capital. In another cave, they found fragments of a second-century jar, adding even more pieces to the historical puzzle.

Ambassador Huckabee said the experience held special meaning for him. "It's amazing to come to a place that proves that miracles can happen, 3,000 years ago and even today," he shared in a statement.

Governor Sanders echoed the sentiment, calling the moment unforgettable. "Watching my kids uncover and hold coins buried for more than 2,000 years was unforgettable," she said.

Why This Inspires

This discovery shows how history comes alive when we can touch it with our own hands. For these children, ancient history isn't just something in textbooks anymore. It's real coins they held, proof that people lived and traded in these exact places thousands of years ago.

The experience also highlights how kids continue to play important roles in archaeological discoveries across Israel. Last December, a 12-year-old girl found an ancient Egyptian amulet while hiking with her family. Another young girl discovered a 3,800-year-old amulet tied to the Canaanite people at Tel Azeka.

These moments turn everyday family trips into adventures that connect us to our shared human story.