מחצית השקל
Machatzit HaShekel Calculator
Live Half-Shekel value based on current silver spot price
| Silver spot price (per gram) | |
| Silver spot price (per troy ounce) | |
| Half-Shekel silver weight | 9.6 grams |
| Calculation | |
| Machatzit HaShekel |
The Mitzvah
The Machatzit HaShekel (מחצית השקל) — the “Half Shekel” — is a Torah-mandated contribution that was given annually to the Beit HaMikdash (Holy Temple). Today, the custom of giving Machatzit HaShekel is observed as a zecher (remembrance) of this mitzvah, typically given before the reading of Megillat Esther on Purim.
The Silver Weight
The half-shekel of the Torah is a coin of pure silver. According to widely accepted halachic authorities, the half-shekel weighs approximately 9.6 grams of pure silver (based on the opinion that a shekel equals 19.2 grams). This is the weight used in this calculator.
Some poskim hold slightly different opinions regarding the exact weight. The Rambam’s opinion corresponds to roughly 8.5 grams for a half-shekel. Consult your Rav for the opinion you should follow.
How This Calculator Works
The silver price per gram is multiplied by 9.6 grams to produce the current value. Currency conversion for USD and ILS uses live exchange rates from the European Central Bank.
When to Give
The widespread custom is to give the Machatzit HaShekel on Ta’anit Esther (the Fast of Esther), before Mincha, or before the Megillah reading on Purim night. Many have the custom to give three half-coins (zecher for the three times “terumah” is mentioned in Parshat Ki Tisa), while others give one per family member. Consult your Rav for the custom you should follow.
Who Gives
The obligation of the Machatzit HaShekel in Temple times applied to every male aged 20 and above. Today, the widespread custom is for men over Bar Mitzvah to give. Many also give on behalf of their wife and children, and some include even unborn children. Follow your family’s custom and your Rav’s guidance.