Chapter IV
Commemorative Coins
Page 6
2011 - present
NIS = New Sheqel

 

2011

 

GYMNASTICS
2012 London Olympiad
2011 / 5771

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

xxVALUExx
USD

484

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

Utrecht

1,800

 

85.00

485

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.925

38.7

28.8

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Utrecht

5,000

 

130.00

486

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Utrecht

555

 

1,250.00

This coin honors the Israeli Olympic delegation to the 2012 Olympic Games in London, and is dedicated to gymnastics.

 

The obverse dhows a ribbon performance by a gymnast, with the ribbon flying in the air in the shape of a Star of David.

On the reverse appear the denomination in Hebrew and English, the Israel State Emblem, "Israel" in Hebrew, English and Arabic, the mint year, and the shape of the Israeli flag formed by a ribbon used in an artistic gymnastic exercise.

 

THE DEAD SEA
63rd Anniversary of Independence
2011 / 5771

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

VALUE
USD

481

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

Utrecht

1,800

 

85.00

482

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.925

38.7

28.8

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Utrecht

5,000

 

130.00

483

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Utrecht

555

 

1,250.00

The Dead Sea is a combination of unique geological and geographical conditions which renders it a natural phenomenon and one of the most striking wonders of the world. It was a deserving candidate for the title of one of the "Seven Natural Wonders of the World". The Dead Sea is is situated at the lowest point in the world, some 420 m below sea level, in the Jordan Rift Valley. It is the deepest lake in the world, with a high degree of salinity; rich rich in minerals, especially potash and bromine, which are extracted by the Dead Sea Works. The Dead Sea has therapeutic and healing properties and attracts thousands of people who come for treatment and marvel at the breathtaking scenery with salt cliffs, weathered into incredible shapes. The Dead Sea has high density waters, making it hard to swim in but easy to float on. It lies in a region with a unique wildlife and has attracted the development of an important tourist industry in the center of a region rich in Biblical history and archaeology. The Dead Sea waters today are shrinking fast because the intake is much less than the water lost as a result of high evaporation and the activity of humans. The southern part of the lake has already almost completely dried up and become an area of salt deposits. The costly Dead Sea Project which is to bring water from the Red Sea to the Dead Sea, planned together by Israelis, Jordanians and Palestinians, aims at producing energy, fresh water and further development of tourism. The 63rd Anniversary Coin of Israel is dedicated to the Dead Sea and the importance of preserving this wonder of nature for the future.

 

The obverse design is based on a satellite photograph of the Dead Sea region. To the left is a native ibex (wild goat), once an endangered species, which flourishes on the nearby cliffs.

The reverse symbolizes one of the Dead Sea's most intriguing characteristics. The salinity of circa 31% and the subsequent high density of its water cause all objects to float without the possibility of submerging. The denominations 1, 2 and 10 are thus depicted as floating on the Dead Sea, their mirror images reflecting in the water.

 

THE WESTERN WALL
"Jerusalem of Gold" Bullion Coin Series - # 2
2011 / 5771

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

VALUE
USD

491

20 NIS

BU

gold

.999

32.0

31.1

plain

rev. Star

Utrecht

3,600

 

SPOT*
(1 oz)

The Western Wall in Jerusalem is the sole remnant of the Second Temple that has remained intact since the Temple was destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE. This is the closest spot to the Holy of Holies, the central focus of the Temple, from which the Divine Presence is said never to leave. While Jerusalem has been destroyed and rebuilt nine times, the Western Wall is eternal and has remained intact, true to the prophecies. Jewish prayers from all over the world are directed towards the Temple Mount. When King Solomon built the Temple, he asked God to listen to the prayers of all those who come from afar to visit the Temple. The Prophet Isaiah described the Temple as a "House of Prayer for all People" and, indeed, people from all over the world visit the Western Wall to pray and many will not leave without placing a slip of paper with a prayer, within the crevices of the Wall. People pray at the Western Wall 24 hours a day and, on Jewish and national holidays and special events, celebrations and ceremonies are held there. Pictured on this gold bullion coin is the Western Wall, showing the lower layer of huge stones that were amazingly laid down by the builders of King Herod (Herod the Great), without the use of any cement. Herod and his talented engineers initiated a renovation project intended to embellish the Second Temple and the Western Wall was part of this. The Wall itself rises to a height of 32m (105ft), with half of it buried underground. The two upper layers of stones were added in later periods. From between the stones sturdy native caper plants grow tenuously. At the foot of the Wall, people can be seen praying, as is usual at the Wall at all hours of the day and night.


The coin's obverse depicts the Lion of Megiddo, taken from an ancient 8th century BCE seal excavated in Megiddo (Armageddon). The seal belonged to Shema, the servant of the Israelite King Jeroboam II. The lion is the symbol of the Tribe of Judah and of the eternal capital of Israel, Jerusalem. The same "Lion of Megiddo" appeared in the past on the Israeli 5 Lira Banknote (1958), 5 Lira Coin (1978) and on the Half Sheqel Coin (1980). Above the lion is the Israel State Emblem and below it, the word "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic.
The reverse shows the Western Wall.

 

* Gold bullion coins are usually traded at a varying premium above their spot bullion value.

 

ELIJAH IN THE WHIRLWIND
Version I
Biblical Art Series - # 16
2011/5771

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

xxVALUExx
USD

487

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

Vantaa

1,800

 

100.00

489

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.925

38.7

28.8

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Vantaa

2,800

 

160.00

490

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Vantaa

555

 

1,800.00

Elijah the Prophet, about whom it written in the Book of Kings I & II, ascends to heaven in the whirlwind, in a chariot of fire drawn by horses of fire. This is one of the most famous Biblical stories and scenes, and has been an inspiration for artists throughout the ages. Elijah the Prophet appears in the Bible with no prior history, but is a prophet in the Kingdom of Israel.
When Elijah's role as a prophet was destined to end and he was to leave this world, Elisha was to take over from him. The moving parting between Elisha and his beloved master is an integral part of this dramatic scene. As Elijah and Elisha walked and talked together "behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them from one another, and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. And Elisha saw it, and he cried "My Father, My Father… And he saw him no more and he took hold of his own clothes, and rent them in two pieces. He took up also the mantle of Elijah that had fallen from him …" (Kings II, 2:11-13). Elijah had not died but he had been taken up to heaven, to reappear as a harbinger of the Messiah to come.


The coin's obverse depicts Elijah going up to heaven in a chariot of fire drawn by horses of fire. Below left is Elisha, who is to take over Elijah's prophetic role, shocked by the parting of Elijah.

On the reverse appear the face value, "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic, the biblical inscription in English and Arabic around the border, and upper right in Hebrew in artistic letters resembling flames within the whirlwind. Israel's State emblem appears at top center.

 

ELIJAH IN THE WHIRLWIND
Version II
Biblical Art Series - # 16
The Smallest Gold Coin
2011 / 5771

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

xxVALUExx
USD

488

1 NIS

Proof

gold

.999

13.92

1.24

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Vantaa

5,000

 

220.00

Elijah the Prophet, about whom it written in the Book of Kings I & II, ascends to heaven in the whirlwind, in a chariot of fire drawn by horses of fire. This is one of the most famous Biblical stories and scenes, and has been an inspiration for artists throughout the ages. Elijah the Prophet appears in the Bible with no prior history, but is a prophet in the Kingdom of Israel.
When Elijah's role as a prophet was destined to end and he was to leave this world, Elisha was to take over from him. The moving parting between Elisha and his beloved master is an integral part of this dramatic scene. As Elijah and Elisha walked and talked together "behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them from one another, and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. And Elisha saw it, and he cried "My Father, My Father… And he saw him no more and he took hold of his own clothes, and rent them in two pieces. He took up also the mantle of Elijah that had fallen from him …" (Kings II, 2:11-13). Elijah had not died but he had been taken up to heaven, to reappear as a harbinger of the Messiah to come.

 

The coin's obverse depicts Elijah going up to heaven in a chariot of fire drawn by horses of fire. Below left is Elisha, who is to take over Elijah's prophetic role, shocked by the parting of Elijah.

On the reverse appear the face value, "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic, the biblical inscription in English and Arabic around the border, and upper right in Hebrew in artistic letters resembling flames within the whirlwind. Israel's State emblem appears at top center.

 

YITZHAK RABIN
NOBEL PEACE PRIZE 1994
Nobel Laureates Series - # 3

2011 / 5772

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

VALUE
USD

495

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

Utrecht

1,800

 

100.00

496

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.925

38.7

28.8

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Utrecht

2,800

 

160.00

497

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Utrecht

888

 

1,800.00

Born in Jerusalem, Yitzhak Rabin completed his studies in agriculture and wanted to become an irrigation engineer. Instead, he embarked on what was to become a military career, culminating in his appointment as Chief of Staff of Israel Defense Force in 1964. Rabin married Leah Schlossberg and they had a daughter, Dalia, and son, Yuval. At the end of 1967, after the Six Day War, Rabin retired from the military and was appointed Israel's Ambassador to the United States. In 1973, prior to the Yom Kippur War, Yitzhak Rabin returned to Israel and entered politics, becoming the 5th Prime Minister in 1974. In 1993, Rabin was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, together with Shimon Peres and Yasser Arafat, for efforts to create peace in the Middle East. On 4th November 1995, Yitzhak Rabin was tragically assassinated in Tel Aviv, at the conclusion of a peace rally. The nation has remained in shock and mourns his tragic and untimely death until today. Yitzhak Rabin was laid to rest on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem and leaders from all over the world attended his State funeral. Perhaps most memorable of them was then U.S. President Clinton, who ended his moving eulogy with the words in Hebrew, "Shalom Haver!" (Goodbye Friend!).


The coin's obverse bears a portrait of Yitzhak Rabin, based on photographs taken in a period preceding the Nobel Peace Prize award.

 

2012

 

SEA OF GALILEE
64th Anniversary of Independence
2012 / 5772

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

VALUE
USD

 

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

Vantaa

1,800

 

85.00

 

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.925

38.7

28.8

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Vantaa

2,800

 

130.00

 

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Vantaa

555

 

1,250.00

Situated at approximately 212 m (236 ft) below sea level in the Jordan Rift Valley, the Sea of Galilee is the lowest freshwater lake in the world. It receives its waters primarily from the Jordan River, which flows through it from its northern to southern shores and further southward as far as the Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth. Rising above the Sea of Galilee to the northeast are the Golan Heights and to the northwest, the Hills of the Galilee. Its waters are pumped into the Israel National Water Carrier and provide fresh water for much of the country, even enabling the Negev desert to bloom and flourish. The Sea of Galilee is significant in both Judaism and Christianity. In the Bible it is referred to several times as a prominent boundary mark. The City of Tiberias on its western shore was an important city in the Mishnaic period, 2nd century AD. Famous Tannaim, including Rabbi Yochanan Ben Zakai and Rabbi Akiva, were active in the city and were buried there. Moses Maimonides, the Rambam, was brought to Tiberias for burial. According to the New Testament, Jesus lived in the Galilee and is believed to have performed famous miracles there, including the Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes, Calming the Storm and Walking on the Water. Christian pilgrims visit the synagogue at Capernaum where Jesus preached, the Mount of Beatitudes where he gave the Sermon on the Mount, and the point where the Jordan flows south where John the Baptist is believed to have baptized early Christians. In 2011 a “Jesus Trail” was inaugurated, totaling 64 km (40 miles) of holy places encircling the Sea. Israel's first Kibbutzim were established on the shores of the Sea of Galilee in the early 20th century and they continue to flourish and prosper today. The Sea of Galilee, called “Kinneret”- lyre or harp in Hebrew due to its shape - is also a popular vacation, sports and health resort with its thermal springs.The magnificent scenic area is also a magnet for artists.


The coin's obverse shows a view of the Sea of Galilee with its palm trees and wildflowers, with the Golan Heights in the background.
On the reverse appears the harp-shaped outline of the Sea of Galilee.

 

THE KNESSET MENORAH
Jerusalem of Gold Bullion Coin Series - # 3
2012 / 5772

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

VALUE
USD

 

20 NIS

BU

gold

.999

32.0

31.1

plain

rev. Star

Vantaa

3,600

 

SPOT*
(1 oz)

An impressive sculpted Menorah, created by the British Jewish sculptor of German origin, Benno Elkan, was donated to the Knesset (the Israeli Parliament), by the British Parliament, in 1956. It had taken six years to complete this masterpiece. Cast in bronze, the artistic 4.30m high Menorah stands today in the Rose Garden facing the Knesset building in Jerusalem and has become a popular tourist attraction. Its sculpted decorations depict the turbulent history of Israel, the struggles of the people from exile to rebirth. The Menorah is first mentioned in the Book of Exodus, Chapter 25. Moses received precise instructions from the Lord how to build the Menorah in pure gold, in one piece, and it was Bezalel the architect who actually constructed it. This same Menorah accompanied the Children of Israel on their journey through the wilderness and was later moved to the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. The Prophet Zechariah sees a Menorah in his prophetic visions (Zechariah 4:2-3). Here, the significance of the Menorah is explained by the words "Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit", meaning that spiritual force will prevail over physical power. These words are sculpted on the Knesset Menorah Monument. In Hasmonean times (second to first century BC), the Menorah appeared on Jewish coins and first served as a national symbol of the Jewish people. When the State of Israel was established in 1948, the Menorah became the main feature of the Israel State Emblem.


The coin's obverse depicts the Roaring Lion of Megiddo, taken from an ancient 8th century BC seal excavated in Megiddo (Armageddon). The seal belonged to Shema, the servant of the Israelite King Jeroboam II. The lion is the symbol of the Tribe of Judah and of the eternal capital of Israel, Jerusalem. The same "Lion of Megiddo" appeared in the past on the Israeli 5 Lira Banknote (1958), 5 Lira Coin (1978) and on the Half Sheqel Coin (1980). Above the lion is the Israel State Emblem and below it, the word "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic.
The reverse shows the Knesset Menorah with the Knesset building in the background.

 

* Gold bullion coins are usually traded at a varying premium above their spot bullion value.

 

TEL MEGIDDO
UNESCO Heritage Sites Series - # 4
2012 / 5772

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

VALUE
USD

492

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

Utrecht

1,800

 

100.00

493

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.925

38.7

28.8

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Utrecht

2,800

 

150.00

494

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Utrecht

555

 

1,780.00

Megiddo was already an important city in the Bronze Age during the Canaanite period, and in the Iron Age during the Israelite period. Located at a strategic point on fertile land, Megiddo guarded the pass to an ancient trade route connecting Egypt and Assyria. For this reason, the city was desired by many ruling powers and was the site of frequent battles. Among its conquerors were Pharaohs of ancient Egypt, the Israelite and Judean Kings, as well as Assyria. Towards the end of the 7th century BC, at the Battle of Megiddo between Egypt and the Kingdom of Judah, Pharoah Neco, captured the city from the Assyrians and slew King Josiah of Judah, to the astonishment of the people of Israel. Tel (settlement mound) Megiddo is one the most important and impressive archaeological sites in the Land of Israel. Its twenty archaeological strata contain the remains of some thirty different cities, spanning a period of over 4,000 years. Excavations carried out since 1903 have revealed an area of worship, a large palace with jewels and ivories, stables from the time of King Ahab (I Kings 16-22, 9th century BC), and the famous 8th century BC seal with a roaring lion belonging to Shema, the servant of King Jeroboam II. In addition and most impressive of all the findings, is a fine water system dating from the Israelite period. Initiated in the 10th century BC, when Megiddo was one of three royal centers. The elaborate water system safeguarded the city's water supply in times of siege. It consisted of a 25 meter-deep vertical shaft and a subterranean 80 meter-long horizontal tunnel, which had been painstakingly cut in the rock on the western side of the city, making it possible to reach the spring outside the city walls without being seen by the enemy. Megiddo is mentioned 11 times in the Bible. The Prophet Zechariah refers to Megiddo as Megiddon and continues with an apocalyptic description of a world war. In the New Tetament, Megiddo is referred to as "Armageddon"and according to Christian tradition (Book of Revelation), it is here where the final battle will take place between good and evil forces, at the end of days. Representing an interchange of human values throughout the ancient Near East and being a testimony to an ancient civilization with a high level of engineering and technology, Tel Megiddo was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2005. Now a National Park, Tel Megiddo is visited by thousands, including Christian pilgrims to the Holy Land.


The coin's obverse depicts the tunnel of the water system at Megiddo and a jug found in an archeological dig, as well as the UNESCO World Heritage Site emblem and the Israel UNESCO emblem.

Part of the "Roaring Lion" seal is shown on the reverse.

 

DANIEL IN THE DEN OF LIONS

Version I
Biblical Art Series - # 17

2012 / 5772

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

xxVALUExx
USD

 

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

Utrecht

1,800

 

100.00

 

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.925

38.7

28.8

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Utrecht

2,800

 

150.00

 

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Utrecht

555

 

1,780.00

The biblical story of Daniel is an amazing story of faith, loyalty and heroism. Daniel was a handsome, intelligent boy of royal descent, who was exiled from his home in the Land of Israel, his country of birth, before the destruction of the First Temple in Jerusalem in 586 BC. He grew up in the palace of King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, became a favorite of the King and later, the interpreter of the King's dreams. For this, he was appointed head of the King's wise men and the Kingdom of Babylon. When Nebuchadnezzar died, his son Belshazar inherited the throne. One night, Belshazar made a great banquet for a thousand people (Book of Daniel, Chapter 5). After having drunk much wine, he requested that the vessels of the Temple in Jerusalem taken by his father, be brought out and used. At that very moment, a hidden hand began to write words on the wall. Nobody was able to interpret the meaning of the words except Daniel. Solely Daniel was able to read and explain the significance of the writing on the wall: The words "Mene Mene Teqel Ufarsin" predicted the fall of the Babylonian Empire and its subsequent conquest by Persia and Modai. That very night, Belshazzar was killed and Darius the Mede succeeded to the throne. Darius, like his predecessors, appointed Daniel as Head of his Counselors and in sole charge of the empire. At this time, out of sheer envy, Daniel's rivals sought his downfall. A decree was initiated by the King's Counselors with the King's agreement, forbidding orders to be given by any person except the King, for thirty days. Any person not obeying this decree would be thrown into the lions' den. When Daniel remained faithful to God and continued praying to Him three times daily, his rivals spoke slander of him before the King. Despite his affection for Daniel, the King now had no choice but to have him thrown into the lions' den. That night, the King could not sleep and at the crack of dawn, he precipitated to the lions' den to see what had become of Daniel. To the relief and joy of the King, Daniel, rewarded by God for his faith and loyalty, was there in the den, untouched by the fierce lions. The King admired the God of Daniel and decreed that He was to be revered. He ordered that Daniel's rivals be thrown into the den, upon which. they were instantly devoured by the lions. Daniel continued to serve as executive officer to Darius the Mede and later, Cyrus, King of Persia.


The obverse of the coin depicts Daniel in the lions' den, praying to the Lord, flanked but unharmed by two fierce lions.

The reverse shows the face value, "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic, mint year, Israel State Emblem and a hungry, roaring lion.

 

DANIEL IN THE DEN OF LIONS
Version II
Biblical Art Series - # 17
The Smallest Gold Coin
2012 / 5772

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

xxVALUExx
USD

 

1 NIS

Proof

gold

.999

13.92

1.24

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Utrecht

5,000

 

210.00

The biblical story of Daniel is an amazing story of faith, loyalty and heroism. Daniel was a handsome, intelligent boy of royal descent, who was exiled from his home in the Land of Israel, his country of birth, before the destruction of the First Temple in Jerusalem in 586 BC. He grew up in the palace of King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, became a favorite of the King and later, the interpreter of the King's dreams. For this, he was appointed head of the King's wise men and the Kingdom of Babylon. When Nebuchadnezzar died, his son Belshazar inherited the throne. One night, Belshazar made a great banquet for a thousand people (Book of Daniel, Chapter 5). After having drunk much wine, he requested that the vessels of the Temple in Jerusalem taken by his father, be brought out and used. At that very moment, a hidden hand began to write words on the wall. Nobody was able to interpret the meaning of the words except Daniel. Solely Daniel was able to read and explain the significance of the writing on the wall: The words "Mene Mene Teqel Ufarsin" predicted the fall of the Babylonian Empire and its subsequent conquest by Persia and Modai. That very night, Belshazzar was killed and Darius the Mede succeeded to the throne. Darius, like his predecessors, appointed Daniel as Head of his Counselors and in sole charge of the empire. At this time, out of sheer envy, Daniel's rivals sought his downfall. A decree was initiated by the King's Counselors with the King's agreement, forbidding orders to be given by any person except the King, for thirty days. Any person not obeying this decree would be thrown into the lions' den. When Daniel remained faithful to God and continued praying to Him three times daily, his rivals spoke slander of him before the King. Despite his affection for Daniel, the King now had no choice but to have him thrown into the lions' den. That night, the King could not sleep and at the crack of dawn, he precipitated to the lions' den to see what had become of Daniel. To the relief and joy of the King, Daniel, rewarded by God for his faith and loyalty, was there in the den, untouched by the fierce lions. The King admired the God of Daniel and decreed that He was to be revered. He ordered that Daniel's rivals be thrown into the den, upon which. they were instantly devoured by the lions. Daniel continued to serve as executive officer to Darius the Mede and later, Cyrus, King of Persia.


The obverse of the coin depicts Daniel in the lions' den, praying to the Lord, flanked but unharmed by two fierce lions.

The reverse shows the face value, "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic, mint year, Israel State Emblem and a hungry, roaring lion.

 

CORAL REEF - EILAT
Views of Israel Series - # 1

2012 / 5773

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

xxVALUExx
USD

 

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

Kongsberg

1,800

 

75.00

 

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.925

38.7

28.8

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Kongsberg

2,800

 

120.00

 

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Kongsberg

555

 

1,500.00

The Coral Reefs in Eilat are among the most beautiful reefs in the world. Their unique features are the result of a combination of factors, including the structure of the Gulf of Eilat, its geological history and climatic and oceanographic characteristics. Together, these have led to the development of rich and diverse Coral Reefs, resembling magnificent “underwater gardens”. Hundreds of coral species, as well as thousands of different species of fishes and marine invertebrates, decorate the reef, creating an array of colors and a marine ecosystem unparalleled anywhere else on earth. The Coral Reefs in Eilat are characterized by their structural and biological complexity, providing a habitat for thousands of species that live together in perfect reciprocal interaction. The coin, first in the "Views of Israel" series, presents the natural splendor of the Coral Reef with its exotic corals, fishes and water life. The harmonious designs on both sides of the coin evoke the rich, enchanting underwater world.

 

The obverse depicts an artistic composition of coral, dolphin and fish on a background wave design, representing the Coral Reef in Eilat, with border inscription "Coral Reef – Eilat" in English, Hebrew and Arabic.

On the reverse appear fishes, with waves in the background.

 

2013

 

SHRINE OF THE BOOK
Jerusalem of Gold Bullion Coin Series - # 4
2013 / 5773

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

VALUE
USD

 

20 NIS

BU

gold

.999

32.0

31.1

plain

rev. Star

Utrecht

3,600

 

SPOT*
(1 oz)

The Shrine of the Book is part of the campus of the Israel Museum in Jerusalem, in which the Dead Sea Scrolls and other ancient manuscripts are showcased and preserved. The unique shape of the Shrine of the Book, prominent in the Jerusalem landscape, is reflected in a pool of water that surrounds it. Designed by Frederick Kiesler and Armand Bartos, and inaugurated in 1965, the Shrine of the Book is an international landmark of modern architecture and the repository for the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Aleppo Codex and other rare, ancient manuscripts. The Shrine of the Book was originally built to house the Dead Sea Scrolls, the oldest known biblical manuscripts dating from about 2,000 years ago, discovered in 1947 at Qumran by the Dead Sea. The white building was designed to symbolize the lids of the jars in which the first scrolls were found, while the corridor leading into the Shrine resembles the cave, where they were discovered. In the 1950s, the 10th-century Aleppo Codex, the most authoritative manuscript of the Masoretic text of the Hebrew Bible in existence, was brought to Jerusalem, and is now on view in the Shrine of the Book.

Obverse:

The Roaring Lion of Megiddo, taken from an ancient 8th century BC seal excavated in Megiddo (Armageddon). The seal belonged to Shema, the servant of the Israelite King Jeroboam II. The lion is the symbol of the Tribe of Judah and of the eternal capital of Israel, Jerusalem. The same "Lion of Megiddo" appeared in the past on the Israeli 5 Lira Banknote (1958), 5 Lira Coin (1978) and on the Half Sheqel Coin (1980). Above the lion is the Israel State Emblem and below it, the word "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic.
Reverse:

Part of the Shrine of the Book with its distinctive shape and wall at the base, which encloses a pool of water. In the upper center is an extract from the Great Isaiah Scroll, one of the original seven Dead Sea Scrolls discovered at Qumran. In the upper border is the word "Jerusalem" in English, Hebrew and Arabic and to the right, the face value, mint year and Star of David mint mark.

 

YAD VASHEM HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL 60 YEARS
65th Anniversary of Independence
2013 / 5773

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

VALUE
USD

 

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

ICMC

1,800

 

65.00

 

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.925

38.7

28.8

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

ICMC

2,800

 

100.00

 

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

ICMC

555

 

1,250.00

"And to them will I give in my house and within my walls a memorial and a name (a "yad vashem") that shall not be cut off" - Isaiah 56:5. Yad Vashem (literally "a memorial and a name") in Jerusalem, is a pioneer of Holocaust Museums worldwide. It is the Jewish people's living memorial to the Holocaust, dedicated to the memory of the past and imparting its meaning for future generations. Established in 1953 by the Knesset as the world center for documentation, research, education and commemoration of the Holocaust, Yad Vashem is today a dynamic and vital place of intergenerational and international encounter, visited by nearly a million people each year and all world leaders on their official visits to Israel. The Yad Vashem Pages of Testimony Memorial Repository has recently been included in the UNESCO Memory of the World Register. In sixty years, 2.6 million names have been documented by Yad Vashem on Pages of Testimony, which together with other documentation have allowed Yad Vashem to identify so far, by name 4.2 million out of the 6 million victims of the Holocaust. The Pages of Testimony Memorial Repository is housed in the Hall of Names at Yad Vashem. Designed by Yossi Lemel, the Israel 65th Anniversary Coin marks the 60th Anniversary of the Yad Vashem. Its design is a poignant reminder of the past horrors of the Holocaust, while at the same time, a firm expression of the continuity and rebirth of the Jewish people in the modern State of Israel.


Obverse:
A striped shirt with Star of David, resembling the garment forced upon the Jewish people in the Holocaust. A Star of David in the background symbolizes "The People of Israel Lives on".

Reverse:

The State Emblem, "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic, the Mint Year and Mint Mark.

 

2014 FIFA FOOTBALL (SOCCER) WORLD CUP BRAZIL
2013 / 5773

PICTURES PENDING

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

VALUE
USD

 

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

Utrecht

1,800

 

70.00

 

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.925

38.7

28.8

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Utrecht

2,800

 

110.00

 

5 NIS

Proof

gold

.999

27.0

07.77

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Utrecht

555

 

650.00

This coin commemorates the 2014 FIFA Football (Soccer) World Cup in Brazil. The last time an Israeli national team participated in the final event was in 1970 in Mexico. Thereafter, all Israeli attempts to progress past the preliminary rounds failed.

 

Obverse:
The ball in the net, a goal, the most exciting moment of the game.

Reverse:
The face value and words "New Sheqalim" in Hebrew and English, the word "Israel" in Hebrew, English and Arabic, the Israel State Emblem, Mint Year (2013 and 5773 in Hebrew characters). Centered in the lower part of the coin is the mint mark. Upper left is a football pictured as the globe in orbit.

 

DAVID PLAYING FOR SAUL

Version I
Biblical Art Series - # 18
2013/5774

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

xxVALUExx
USD

 

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

Kongsberg

1,800

 

60.00

 

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.999

38.7

31.1

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Kongsberg

2,800

 

100.00

 

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Kongsberg

555

 

1,160.00

The image of David playing the harp for Saul to relieve him from his depression after the kingship was taken away from him, reflects the rise and fall of Saul described in the Book of Samuel I.
In the time of the Judges, the Philistines were a constant menace to the people of Israel and the people asked the Prophet Samuel for a King. Saul the son of Qish from the Tribe of Benjamin was chosen, "a choice young man and handsome….taller than any of the people" (I Samuel 9:2). Saul's kingship lasted for two years and was torn by war against the Philistines. Further to this, he was commanded by God through Samuel to wage war against Amalek. Saul, however, instead of exerting his authority as king, listened to the people, who urged him to have mercy on Amalek. Thus began his downfall for not obeying the word of God. Commanded by God, Samuel took the kingship away from him. Samuel was then sent by God to take a king from the sons of Jesse the Bethlehemite. Jesse brought his sons before Samuel but not one of them was deemed fit for the kingship by God. When he finally brought his youngest son, David the shepherd, "ruddy with fine eyes and good looking" (I Samuel 16:12), God commanded Samuel "Arise, anoint him: for this is he" (I Samuel 16:12). From this day onwards, the spirit of God left Saul and passed to David. An evil spirit tormented Saul. To help him, Saul's servants suggested that a man who can play well be brought to him. David the son of Jesse, whose anointment as king was as yet unknown, was chosen and brought before Saul. David played sweetly on his harp and relieved Saul of his depressive spirit. Saul's imminent disappearance as king is represented on the coin by an outlined background image of Saul seated on the throne, his crown detached from his head. In the foreground, David, the young shepherd whose anointment as future king was not yet known, is depicted playing for Saul.

 

Obverse:

David playing the harp for Saul.

Reverse:

A harp, and text "David playing for Saul" around the circumference in Hebrew, English and Arabic.

 

DAVID PLAYING FOR SAUL

Version II
Biblical Art Series - # 18
The Smallest Gold Coin
2013 / 5774

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

xxVALUExx
USD

 

1 NIS

Proof

gold

.999

13.92

1.24

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Kongsberg

5,000

 

140.00

The image of David playing the harp for Saul to relieve him from his depression after the kingship was taken away from him, reflects the rise and fall of Saul described in the Book of Samuel I.
In the time of the Judges, the Philistines were a constant menace to the people of Israel and the people asked the Prophet Samuel for a King. Saul the son of Qish from the Tribe of Benjamin was chosen, "a choice young man and handsome….taller than any of the people" (I Samuel 9:2). Saul's kingship lasted for two years and was torn by war against the Philistines. Further to this, he was commanded by God through Samuel to wage war against Amalek. Saul, however, instead of exerting his authority as king, listened to the people, who urged him to have mercy on Amalek. Thus began his downfall for not obeying the word of God. Commanded by God, Samuel took the kingship away from him. Samuel was then sent by God to take a king from the sons of Jesse the Bethlehemite. Jesse brought his sons before Samuel but not one of them was deemed fit for the kingship by God. When he finally brought his youngest son, David the shepherd, "ruddy with fine eyes and good looking" (I Samuel 16:12), God commanded Samuel "Arise, anoint him: for this is he" (I Samuel 16:12). From this day onwards, the spirit of God left Saul and passed to David. An evil spirit tormented Saul. To help him, Saul's servants suggested that a man who can play well be brought to him. David the son of Jesse, whose anointment as king was as yet unknown, was chosen and brought before Saul. David played sweetly on his harp and relieved Saul of his depressive spirit. Saul's imminent disappearance as king is represented on the coin by an outlined background image of Saul seated on the throne, his crown detached from his head. In the foreground, David, the young shepherd whose anointment as future king was not yet known, is depicted playing for Saul.

 

Obverse:

David playing the harp for Saul.

Reverse:

A harp, and text "David playing for Saul" around the circumference in Hebrew, English and Arabic.

 

JORDAN RIVER
Views of Israel Series - # 2

2013 / 5774

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

xxVALUExx
USD

 

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

Kongsberg

1,800

 

60.00

 

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.999

38.7

31.1

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Kongsberg

2,800

 

100.00

 

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

Kongsberg

555

 

1,160.00

The Jordan River is the subject for the second coin in the series of coins picturing the magnificent views of Israel. The lowest river in the world and longest in Israel with a meandering course of 250 km (155 miles) and hardly more than 30m (20miles) at its widest point, the Jordan River flows from north to south of Israel, through the Syrian-African Rift Valley, joining the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea. Its waters, which come mainly from the rain and snow that falls on the Hermon Mountain to the north, are a prime source of drinking water and irrigation for Israel. One of the most historically and religiously significant rivers, the Jordan has played sacred roles in Judaism and Christianity. It was near Jericho where the Israelites, led by Joshua, crossed the Jordan River to enter the Promised Land.
When Elijah the Prophet and Elisha his successor approached the waters of the Jordan River, Elijah struck the waters with his cloak and the waters parted, enabling them both to cross on dry land. It was here where Elijah was taken up to heaven in the whirlwind and when Elisha hit the waters of the Jordan with Elijah's cloak, the waters separated again, proving that the spirit of Elijah now rested on him.
One of the miracles performed by Elisha was the healing of Na'aman, a general of the King of Aram (today, the region of Syria). Na'aman was afflicted with leprosy and only Elisha succeeding in curing him, by having Na'aman bathe in the Jordan River seven times. In the New Testament, the Jordan River is given a special significance as the baptismal place of Jesus, John and other followers of Jesus. The "Yardenit" baptismal site, where Jesus is said to have been baptized by John (Matthew 3:13) is visited by Christian pilgrims from all over the world. Many descend into the Jordan River at this site to be baptized. The Jordan River has become one of the popular tourist sites of Israel. The coin pictures a beautiful view of the hilly northern part of the river's course and characteristic vegetation on the banks of the river.

 

Obverse:

A general view of the Jordan River. In the distance on the horizon is the Hermon Mountain range and in the foreground, to the right, rocks and Common Reed vegetation.

Reverse:

Face value, Israel State Emblem, "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic, the Mint Year and Mint Mark, the Jordan River as it appears on the map, flowing from the north, southwards, connecting between the Sea of Galilee and the Dead Sea.

 

2014

 

NATIONAL WATER SYSTEM (NATIONAL WATER CARRIER) 50 YEARS
66th Anniversary of Independence
2014 / 5774

PICTURES PENDING

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

VALUE
USD

 

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

ICMC

1,800

 

50.00

 

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.999

38.7

31.1

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

ICMC

2,800

 

100.00

 

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

ICMC

555

 

1,160.00

 At the 50th Anniversary of the completion of Israel's National Water Carrier, the Israel 66th Anniversary Coin was dedicated to Israel's amazing accomplishments in maximizing the use of water in a region where water is scarce and demand for the precious resource is constantly increasing. Israel shares her successes with the world in an effort to improve water supply for the global population. Mekorot, the Israel National Water Company, responsible for water supply to Israel's citizens, is one of the world’s most technologically advanced water companies in desalination, water reclamation, water project engineering, water safety and quality. The National Water Carrier, completed in 1964 and operated by Mekorot, transports water from the Sea of Galilee in the north to the densely populated areas of Israel further south, as far as the Negev desert. In an effort to maximize scarce water resources, most of Israel's wastewater today is treated for use in agriculture. Computerized drip irrigation and early-warning systems for leaks contribute to saving water. After years of dependency on rainfall and in spite of the recent dry years, Israel is becoming self-sufficient in water. This is achieved mainly through desalination, which now provides almost all of of Israel's domestic water. Five desalination plants in Israel are already in operation, all built since 2005. The Hadera Desalination Plant in Israel is the largest of its kind in the world.

The coin's title "National Water System" is somewhat confusing. The explanatory notes above, published by the ICMC, deal primarily with the "National Water Carrier, which was indeed inaugurated in 1964, 2014 being its 50th Anniversary. However, Israel's overall Water System is much older and encompasses such projects as the Yarkon-Negev water conduit which was built gradually and became fully operational in the mid-1950s. Hence, it might have been more appropriate and historically correct to name the coin "Israel Water Carrier" because in fact it celebrates the National Water Carrier's 50th Anniversary.

 

Obverse:
Left, five pipes representing the five decades since the National Water Carrier system in Israel was completed, center from top to bottom, an outline of the coast, artistic representation of the course of the National Water Carrier, lower right, five leaves representing the five decades of the National Water Carrier and the desert blooming.

Reverse:
The Israel State Emblem, "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic, the Mint Year and Mint Mark, Face Value and artistic representation of the course of the National Water Carrier from the north of Israel to the arid south.

 

HURVA SYNAGOGUE
Jerusalem of Gold Bullion Coin Series - # 5
2014 / 5774

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

VALUE
USD

 

20 NIS

BU

gold

.999

32.0

31.1

plain

rev. Star

Utrecht

3,600

 

SPOT*
(1 oz)

One of the most magnificent edifices on the Jerusalem landscape, the Hurva Synagogue in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem is visited by tourists from all over the world. Its dome overlooks a splendid panoramic view of Jerusalem while its dramatic story is linked to the turbulent history of the people of Israel in the Land of Israel, over the past 300+ years. Early in the 18th century, a group of European immigrants led by Rabbi Yehuda Hasid purchased the land with the intention of building a Synagogue in Jerusalem. After the Rabbi’s death, the building remained unfinished and on October 27, 1721, it was burned down by rioting Arabs. From that time, it became known as the Hurva (Hebrew for "Ruin") of Rabbi Yehuda HaHasid. Almost 100 years after it was destroyed, followers of the Gaon of Vilna managed to obtain a license from the Turkish authorities in Kushta, annulling previous debts and permitting the rebuilding of the synagogue, which was inaugurated in 1864. The Synagogue became the center of Jewish spiritual life in the Land of Israel and the center of life in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. Tragically, the beautiful building was to be destroyed once again in 1948 by the Jordanian Arab Legion and all that remained was the foundation and some columns. After the Six Day War in 1967, the ruins of the Hurva became an archeological site and the famous arch of the Synagogue that had been rebuilt, became a prominent symbol of renewed Jewish settlement in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City. In 2002, the Government of Israel announced a decision to rebuild the Hurva and the rebuilt Synagogue was completed in 2010.

 

Obverse:

The Roaring Lion of Megiddo, taken from an ancient 8th century BC seal excavated in Megiddo (Armageddon). The seal belonged to Shema, the servant of the Israelite King Jeroboam II. The lion is the symbol of the Tribe of Judah and of the eternal capital of Israel, Jerusalem. The same "Lion of Megiddo" appeared in the past on the Israeli 5 Lira Banknote (1958), 5 Lira Coin (1978) and on the Half Sheqel Coin (1980). Above the lion is the Israel State Emblem and below it, the word "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic.
Reverse:

View of the Hurva Synagogue. In the upper border is the word "Jerusalem" in English, Hebrew and Arabic and to the right, the face value, mint year and Star of David Mint Mark.

 

TEL HAZOR
UNESCO Heritage Sites Series - # 5
2014 / 5774

PICTURES PENDING

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

VALUE
USD

 

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

ICMC

1,800

 

50.00

 

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.999

38.7

31.1

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

ICMC

2,800

 

100.00

 

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

ICMC

555

 

1,120.00

Situated north of the Sea of Galilee, Tel Hazor (correct pronunciation and commonly spelled: Tel Hatzor) is the largest biblical-era archaeological site in Israel. Like Tel Megiddo featured on the previous coin in this series, Tel Hazor is a an archaeological mound, a testimony to the Canaanite cities of the Bronze Age and the Biblical cities of the Iron Age, that had impressive levels of town planning, architecture, fortifications and water collection technologies. The City of Hazor was built on fertile soil and strategically located on an important trade route running from Egypt in the South to Mesopotamia in the north. The upper city of Hazor, known as the "Acropolis", was the first area to be settled in the third millennium BC in Canaanite times, early Bronze Age, while the lower city (the fortified enclosure) was settled around the 18th century BC. Canaanite Hazor, which appears to have been one of the largest, strongest and most central cities of the time, was destroyed by the Israelites under the leadership of Joshua (Joshua Chap. 11). The city was rebuilt and fortified by King Solomon (I Kings 9) in the tenth century BC. It prospered in the days of Ahab and Jeroboam II in the ninth and eighth centuries BC, but was finally destroyed by the Assyrians (II Kings 15) in 732 BC. Archaeological excavations at Tel Hazor have revealed remains dating from the Bronze Age – sanctuaries, fortresses, palace, orthostats (stone slabs set at the base of a wall), basalt sculptures and plates with Hieroglyphic inscriptions. Remains of the Israelite period include a high cultic place, a six-chambered gate and casemate wall from the time of King Solomon, similar to those discovered at Megiddo. A solid wall fortification and buildings, including a store house, thought to date from the time of King Ahab, have been found. In addition, a sophisticated water system, very similar to the system found at Tel Megiddo, has been revealed. Representing an interchange of human values throughout the ancient near-east and being a testimony to an ancient civilization with a high level of engineering and technology, Tel Hazor was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, in 2005.
 

Obverse:
Remains of structures from the Canaanite and Israelite periods. From the Canaanite period is a basalt Lion orthostat, found near the sanctuary, one of two that flanked the entrance to the Canaanite palace or fortress. From the Israelite period is the ninth century BC Royal Fortress Gate of Tel Hazor. The Gate has two Ionic columns on either side, each with decorative proto-aeolic capitals, characterized by their spiral motifs that are a feature in classical architecture.

Reverse:
Beneath the face value appears a representation of a tenth century BC incense altar that was in use in the Israelite period.

 

JACOB'S DREAM

Version I
Biblical Art Series - # 19
2014/5774

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

xxVALUExx
USD

 

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

 

1,800

 

50.00

 

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.999

38.7

31.1

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

 

2,800

 

100.00

 

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

 

555

 

1,160.00

Jacob fled northwards from Beer Sheba in the south of Israel to his uncle Laban in Haran (today in Syria), fearing that his twin brother Esau would want to kill him after he had received the blessing from his father Isaac and taken away the birthright. Tired and weary, he stopped and lay down to sleep, resting his head on the stones of the ground. In a dream, he sees a ladder reaching from the earth up to heaven, with angels ascending and descending. According to tradition, the foot of the ladder stood on Mount Moriah in Jerusalem, where the Holy Temple would one day be built. God speaks to Jacob in his dream and reminds him of His promises to Jacob's father and grandfather, Abraham and Isaac, because Jacob is to continue the dynasty of Abraham and follow in his path. God also promises to guard Jacob constantly, throughout his journey, until his return to the Land of Israel; He promises not to leave him. There are many interpretations of the dream and its significance. Nahmanides, the famous commentator in 13th century Spain, explains that the dream does not refer solely to Jacob but rather to the long chapter in the history of the Jewish people from exile to return to the Land of Israel. God's promise to Jacob does not refer exclusively to him but to the entire people of Israel; God promises He will not leave His people and will bring them back from exile to the Land of Israel. The angels in the dream represent the connection between earth and heaven, while the steps of the ladder connect the material earth to the spiritual heavens and a person climbs them one by one in order to progress. Jacob's dream of the ladder is something that has captivated people’s imaginations for thousands of years.

 

Obverse:

A representation of Jacob's dream - Jacob dreaming and the ladder with the angels ascending and descending.

Reverse:

The Face Value, Israel State Emblem, "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic, Mint Year and Mint Mark, a decoration symbolizing the ladder in Jacob's dream.

 

JACOB'S DREAM

Version II
Biblical Art Series - # 19
The Smallest Gold Coin
2014 / 5774

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

xxVALUExx
USD

 

1 NIS

Proof

gold

.999

13.92

1.24

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

 

5,000

 

130.00

Jacob fled northwards from Beer Sheba in the south of Israel to his uncle Laban in Haran (today in Syria), fearing that his twin brother Esau would want to kill him after he had received the blessing from his father Isaac and taken away the birthright. Tired and weary, he stopped and lay down to sleep, resting his head on the stones of the ground. In a dream, he sees a ladder reaching from the earth up to heaven, with angels ascending and descending. According to tradition, the foot of the ladder stood on Mount Moriah in Jerusalem, where the Holy Temple would one day be built. God speaks to Jacob in his dream and reminds him of His promises to Jacob's father and grandfather, Abraham and Isaac, because Jacob is to continue the dynasty of Abraham and follow in his path. God also promises to guard Jacob constantly, throughout his journey, until his return to the Land of Israel; He promises not to leave him. There are many interpretations of the dream and its significance. Nahmanides, the famous commentator in 13th century Spain, explains that the dream does not refer solely to Jacob but rather to the long chapter in the history of the Jewish people from exile to return to the Land of Israel. God's promise to Jacob does not refer exclusively to him but to the entire people of Israel; God promises He will not leave His people and will bring them back from exile to the Land of Israel. The angels in the dream represent the connection between earth and heaven, while the steps of the ladder connect the material earth to the spiritual heavens and a person climbs them one by one in order to progress. Jacob's dream of the ladder is something that has captivated people’s imaginations for thousands of years.

 

Obverse:

A representation of Jacob's dream - Jacob dreaming and the ladder with the angels ascending and descending.

Reverse:

The Face Value, Israel State Emblem, "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic, Mint Year and Mint Mark, a decoration symbolizing the ladder in Jacob's dream.

A harp, and text "David playing for Saul" around the circumference in Hebrew, English and Arabic.

 

HULA NATURE RESERVE 50 YEARS
Views of Israel Series - # 3

2014 / 5775

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

xxVALUExx
USD

 

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

 

1,800

 

50.00

 

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.925

38.7

28.8

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

 

2,800

 

100.00

 

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

 

555

 

1,160.00

North of the Sea of Galilee, in the Hula Valley, part of the Syrian African Rift Valley that runs through Israel from north to south, is one of the most beautiful nature reserves of the world, a paradise for birds and heart of a unique flora and fauna. Twice a year, 500 million birds pass here on their migrating route from Europe to Africa.In the 1950's, the Hula swamp area and lake were drained to create arable land, but it soon became evident that in order to protect the natural ecosystem of the area, it was necessary to restore part of the lake and wetlands. After this had been achieved, the area became Israel's first nature reserve, inaugurated in 1964. Tens of thousands of birds of over 200 species, including cranes, storks and pelicans, stay in the reserve, knowing they can find an abundance of food in the Hula Valley. The reserve also shelters rare aquatic plants. Lake Agmon, a re-flooded area of the valley, is also rich in aquatic birds and plants, fostering several that had become extinct due to the draining of the swamp. In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the inauguration of the Hula Nature Reserve, a new commemorative coin is released in the "Views of Israel" Series. The coin depicts the beautifully scenic Hula landscape and presents the king bird of the Hula, the Crane.

 

Obverse:
A beautiful view of the Hula Nature Reserve, with palm trees and a water lily, representing the aquatic plants. In the center is a majestic crane.

Reverse:

The Face Value, Israel State Emblem, "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic, the Mint Year and Mint Mark, on the 10 New Sheqalim and 1 New Sheqel denominations, a palm tree, on the 2 New Sheqel denomination, two cranes in flight.

 

2015

 

SOLAR ENERGY

67th Anniversary of Independence
2015 / 5775

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

VALUE
USD

 

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

ICMC

1,800

 

50.00

 

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.999

38.7

31.1

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

ICMC

2,800

 

100.00

 

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

ICMC

555

 

1,160.00

 With its abundance of strong sunshine and technological capabilities, has been able to develop this source of power by exploiting the sunshine in its southern desert region, which has some of the highest levels of solar radiation in the world. Solar energy is derived from sunlight and is renewable. Global demand for this form of clean energy as opposed to other forms of polluting fuels is constantly growing.
The first commercial solar field in Israel, converting sunlight to electricity by use of solar panels, was launched in 2011. Israeli engineers are at the cutting edge of solar energy technology and Israeli Solar Companies today work on projects around the world. Israel is now the world's largest per capita user of domestic solar water heaters. According to the International Energy Agency, in the future, solar energy may well become the major source of electricity.

 

Obverse:
"Solar Energy in Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic, the sun shining directly on to a solar panel, lighting up cells within the panel that form the shape of a Menorah, the seven-branched candelabrum.

Reverse:
Face Value, Israel State Emblem, "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic, mint year, a decoration representing the sun and its rays

 

ISRAEL MUSEUM 50 YEARS
Jerusalem of Gold Bullion Coin Series - # 6
2015 / 5775

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

VALUE
USD

 

20 NIS

BU

gold

.999

32.0

31.1

plain

rev. Star

 

3,600

 

SPOT*
(1 oz)

The Israel Museum located in Jerusalem is the largest cultural institution in the State of Israel and ranked among the world’s leading art and archaeology museums. Founded in 1965, the Museum houses encyclopedic collections, including works dating from prehistory to the present day, in its Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Jewish Art and Life Wings. The most extensive holdings of biblical and Holy Land archaeology in the world are featured at the Israel Museum. Over 50 years, the Museum has grown significantly and has built up an extensive and varied collection which includes about half a million items, reflecting a wide spectrum of culture.

 

Obverse:

The Roaring Lion of Megiddo, taken from an ancient 8th century BC seal excavated in Megiddo (Armageddon). The seal belonged to Shema, the servant of the Israelite King Jeroboam II. The lion is the symbol of the Tribe of Judah and of the eternal capital of Israel, Jerusalem. The same "Lion of Megiddo" appeared in the past on the Israeli 5 Lira Banknote (1958), 5 Lira Coin (1978) and on the Half Sheqel Coin (1980). Above the lion is the Israel State Emblem and below it, the word "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic.
Reverse:

View of the Israel Museum, to the right, the Shrine of the Book on the Museum Campus. In the upper border is the word "Jerusalem" in English, Hebrew and Arabic and to the right, the Face Value, Mint Year and Star of David Mint Mark.

 

AVDAT

UNESCO Heritage Sites Series - # 6
2015 / 5775

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

VALUE
USD

 

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

ICMC

1,800

 

50.00

 

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.999

38.7

31.1

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

ICMC

2,800

 

100.00

 

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

ICMC

555

 

1,160.00

Avdat in the Negev was one of the famed ancient Nabatean cities along the Incense Route, the road over which costly incense, perfumes and spices were brought out of Arabia, across the Negev and to the Mediterranean ports. The city was named after the Nabatean king Oboda (30-9 BCE), who was buried there. Avdat flourished during the reign of King Aretas IV (30 BCE-9 BCE), but was destroyed by marauding Arab tribes in the second half of the first century BCE. Later, the last Nabatean king, Rabbel (70-106 CE), rebuilt Avdat. In 106 CE the Roman Empire took over the region, and Avdat continued to flourish until the seventh-century Arab conquest. The Nabatean temple on Avdat’s ‘acropolis’ left almost no remains, but its magnificence can be imagined from its restored gateway. The fabulous view from the temple takes in the Avdat highlands and the Even-Ari farm, where Byzantine-era agricultural techniques developed by the Nabateans are reconstructed. Information, courtesy of the Israel Nature and Parks Authority.
 

Obverse:
"Avdat, The Incense Route" in English, Hebrew and Arabic, UNESCO and World Heritage Site Emblems, the restored gateway of the Nabatean temple with dedicatory inscriptions engraved on the lintel across the top of the gateway.

Reverse:
Face value, "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic, mint year, Israel State Emblem and a train of five camels

 

FUTURE RELEASES

 

DAVID AND GOLIATH

Version I
Biblical Art Series - # ?
201?/577?

 

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

xxVALUExx
USD

 

1 NIS

BU

silver

.925

30.0

14.4

plain

rev. Star

 

 

 

 

 

2 NIS

Proof

silver

.925

38.7

28.8

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

 

 

 

 

 

10 NIS

Proof

gold

.917

30.0

16.96

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

 

 

 

 

 

 

DAVID AND GOLIATH

Version II
Biblical Art Series - # ?
The Smallest Gold Coin
201? / 577?

 

CAT. #

DENOM.

GRADE

ALLOY

FINE-
NESS

Ø
MM

WT.
GR

EDGE

MINTMARK

MINT

MINTAGE

REMARKS

xxVALUExx
USD

 

1 NIS

Proof

gold

.999

13.92

1.24

reeded

rev. 'Mem'

 

 

 

 

 

 

Details of Mints

Place
or Name

Country

Name of Mint

ICMC

Israel

Israel Coins and Medals Corporation (a.k.a. The Holy Land Mint), Ma'aleh Hachamisha

Kongsberg

Norway

Det Norske Myntverket (Norwegian Minting Works)

Utrecht

Netherlands

Koninklijke Nederlandse Munt (Royal Dutch Mint)

Vantaa

Finland

Mint of Finland

 

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