SHEQEL - Page 5.4 - State Medals Page 4 : 1976-1980



Chapter V State Medals & Official Medals Page 4 1976 - 1980

1976

"LET MY PEOPLE GO" SECOND WORLD CONFERENCE ON SOVIET JEWRY Official1 Medal 1976 / 5736

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		XXXALLOYXXX	Ø XMMX	WT. XXGR.XX	EDGE & XXXXXXXXXMARKINGSXXXXXXXXX	XXXXMINTXXXX	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
140.1	16051598	5736	1976	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	2,349		0,015.00
140.2	26051590			silver .935	59	117	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #		1,022		200.00
The second World Convention of Jewish Communities for Soviet Jewry met in 1976 in Brussels. The cry "Let my people go!" was in essence the faithful expression of the aims adopted by the Convention. On the obverse of the medal appears the Hebrew inscription "The Second World Conference of Jewish Communities on Soviet Jewry, Brussels, Adar I, 5736", and on the rim the English translation - the date being marked as "February 1976". The reverse depicts a ball of light, a symbol for the sun, bursting through a barrier of bars. On the right is the inscription "Let My People Go" in Hebrew and English.

IRAQI-JEWISH CULTURAL CENTER Official Medal (not sold to public) 1976 / 5736

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
141.1	16052594	5736	1976	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	1,989		20.00
141.2	unlisted			tombac s-p*	59	98			incl.	*silver plated, edge markings same as tombac	25.00
141.3	26052596			silver .935	59	116	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #		1,000		140.00
141.4	36052352			gold .9166	35	30	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), GOLD 916.6, ser. #		250		1,600.00
One hundred twenty three thousand Jews from Iraq, an organized social unit with all its components, immigrated to Israel. They arrived during the years of shortages, rationing, and transit camps. Despite these difficulties, their adjustment was rapid, their traditional Zionist motivation served them well. They came from an area that was the cradle of the Jewish people, and there they experienced great events in their history. The area was the fulcrum of Jewish life during the first thousand years following the destruction of the first Temple, a center of Jewish creativity since the Talmudic era. In order to nurture and maintain the rich heritage of Babylonian Jewry, a cultural center was established in the town of Or Yehuda. The obverse depicts a schematic view of the cultural center. Above it, the inscription: "Center for the Babylonian Jewish Heritage". Below, in English: "Iraqi Jews Traditional Culture Center". On the reverse appears a schematic panorama of Iraq, with a river on the right, and below the biblical citation: "By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion" (Psalms 137:1). * The silver plated tombac version is undocumented, and its origin is therefore uncertain; most probably unofficially silver plated at a later stage.

CANADA PARK Official Medal 1976 / 5736

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
142.1	16053451	5736	1976	tombac	45	40	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	1,594		7.00
142.2	26053453			silver .935	45	48	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #		200		100.00
142.3	36053358			gold .9166	35	30	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), GOLD 916.6, ser. #		4		---
In 1976, the 75th anniversary of the Jewish National Fund, Canada Forest was dedicated in the valley of Ayalon. The maple leaf, Canada's national emblem, appears on the obverse of the medal, with three fir trees inside the leaf. An inscription in English "Canada Park, Presented by Keren Kayemeth Lelsrael" appears in the center. Below, in Hebrew, "Canada Park in the Ayalon Valley". The area of the reverse abounds in tree tops, all of them bending toward the center of the medal. On the rim is a citation: "For the Land is Mine" (Leviticus 25:23) in Hebrew and English.

OPERATION JONATHAN State Medal 1976 / 5736

Cat. # 143.2 - erroneous "silver 935" edge inscription.
Cat. # 143.3 - gold- or aureate-plated tombac medal, with raised rim
CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
143.1	15063592	5736	1976	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	42,057	34,357* minted	6.00
								Kretschmer		9,453* minted
143.2	unlisted			tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #	Hecht	included	tombac medal with erroneous "silver 935" edge inscription	50.00
143.3	unlisted			tombac g-p	35	24	plain	Govt. Mint?	**1	raised rim, gold or aureate plated	1,500.00
143.4	25063594			silver .935	59	115	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #	Hecht	20,409	15,974* minted	140.00
							State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), STERLING (E), ser. #	Kretschmer		6,215* minted
143.5	35063350			gold .900	35	30	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), GOLD 916.6, ser. #	Govt. Mint	10,873		1,500.00
On 27th June 1976, terrorists who had boarded the plane in Athens, took over an Air France Flight 139, en route from Tel Aviv to Paris, and forced the pilot to land at an old hanger in Entebbe, Uganda, then ruled by dictator Idi Amin. There the plane was met by Ugandan soldiers, as well as terrorists of 'The Front for the Liberation of Palestine", armed to the teeth and carrying quantities of explosives. The 246 passengers were locked into a dusty building. The terrorists demanded that 53 terrorists, tried and sentenced, should be delivered to them in exchange for the imprisoned passengers. They set a deadline at the end of which the hostages were to pay with their lives if their demands were not met. The Government of Israel resolved not to succumb to terror, but to liberate the hostages by a daring military operation. On 3rd July, after all diplomatic efforts failed and the deadline of the ultimatum was near, a task force departed by plane to a destination 4,000 km (2,500 mi) away from Israel. In a lightning strike, the terrorists were killed amid a hail of fire exchanged with the Ugandan forces. The 104 remaining hostages (three of whom were killed during the operation) were whisked away to the waiting Israeli planes. One hospitalized hostage was murdered by the Ugandans. In the exchange of fire, Colonel Jonathan ("Yoni") Netanyahu, commander of the task force, was killed. The Entebbe rescue operation was later named after him - "Operation Jonathan". On the medal's obverse appears the IDF emblem with the olive branch entwined around the silhouette of an air force plane, as well as the legend "Operation Jonathan 6 Tamuz 5736" in Hebrew. The English translation bears the date "4th July, 1976". The verse "He sent from above and took me" (Psalm 18:17) appears on the reverse in Hebrew and English. * The breakdown of mintage figures between Mints gives a larger quantity than the final mintage figures, because the specification of melted medals is unknown. ** Cat. # 143.3 is listed in the Haffner catalog as a trial strike of which only one was minted.

SIXTH INTERNATIONAL HARP COMPETITION Official Medal (not sold to public) 1976 / 5736

Cat. # 144.2 - gold- or aureate-plated tombac medal, with raised rim
CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
144.1	16057594	5376	1976	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E)	Hecht	164		250.00
144.2	unlisted			tombac g-p	35	24	plain	Govt. Mint?	*1	raised rim, gold or aureate plated	1,500.00
144.3	unlisted			silver	45		plain	Govt. Mint?	*1	inscribed YITZHAK AVNI	1,500.00
144.4	36057352			gold .900	35	30	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), G 900	Govt. Mint	600		1,600.00
The sixth International Harp Competition took place in Israel in 1976. The world-renowned artist Marc Chagall, famous for his paintings and vitreous creations, consented to design this medal, the only one designed and signed by him. Chagall's "King David" graces the medal's obverse. The crown on the king's head is connected to a figure resembling a hen. The hen is strumming the harp with its tail. Marc Chagall's signature appears below, and on the rim an inscription in Hebrew "The Sixth International Harp Contest, Jerusalem, Elul 5736". enter of the reverse appears the word "Harp" (Nevel). The "Bet" forms the figure of a harp. The inscriptions reads: "Israel 1976", and around rim "Sixth International Harp Contest" in English and French. * Cat. # 143.2 is listed in the Haffner catalog as a trial strike of which only one was minted and inscribed with the name of Yitzhak Avni, CEO of the Israel Coins and Medals Corporation.

MATEH YEHUDA REGIONAL COUNCIL Official Medal 1976 / 5736

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
145.1	16055592	5736	1976	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	1,792		12.00
145.2	26055594			silver .935	59	117	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #		804		150.00
The regional council "Mateh Yehuda", located in the hills of Jerusalem, is part of the area which belonged to the tribe of Judah, hence its name. The council was set up in 1964 and it encompasses 61 settlements. The obverse depicts a stylized figure of a lion which stands atop a sheaf of wheat and a cogged wheel. The inscriptions read: "Regional council" (top) and "Matei Yehuda" (below center). The reverse shows a stylized panorama with a mother holding a child in her arms, while the father is doing construction work. On the right is a stylized head of a lion. Above, on the left, the biblical citation reads: "And the cities of Judah shall be built" (Isaiah 44:26).

JOINT ISRAEL APPEAL FOR JERUSALEM Official Medal 1976 / 5736

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
146.1	16056598	5736	1976	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	1,790		12.00
The word "Joint" is an abbreviated form of "Joint American Committee for Aid Distribution". The Joint, organized in 1914, has done much in granting aid to Jewish communities which were impoverished during the First World War. Between the two wars and in the aftermath, the Joint did yeoman's work in directing aid to needy Jewish institutions, in rescuing people during the Holocaust and in financing their immigration to Israel, as well as emigrants from Islamic lands. In Israel the Joint maintains a chain of homes for the aged, hospitals, work shops for the handicapped and contributes toward the alleviation of suffering among the needy, aid for those requiring rehabilitation. In 1976 the Joint held the "United Jewish Appeal" convention, in Jerusalem, which has a partner in the United States. In the center of the medal's obverse is an inscription: "This Year in Jerusalem", forming a flame lighting a torch, in Hebrew and English. On the rim appears the text "Joint Israel Appeal" in English. The reverse shows a stylized drawing of the Tower of David. The citation in Hebrew and English reads: "For Jerusalem's Sake I will not Rest" (Isaiah 62:1).

UNITED JEWISH APPEAL FOR JERUSALEM Official Medal 1976 / 5737

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
147.1	16054596	5737	1976	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), NOVEMBER 1976 (E), 5736 (H), ser. #	Hecht	2,246		10.00
147.2	26054598			silver .935	59	117	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), NOVEMBER 1976 (E), 5736 (H), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #		1,011		200.00
147.3	unlisted						State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #		included	Edge inscription without "NOVEMBER 1976" & "5736"
147.4	36054590			gold .9166	59	140	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), NOVEMBER 1976 (E), 5736 (H), G 916.6, ser. #		1	Issued exclusively for the UJA	---
The United Jewish Appeal, a combination of several separate fundraising organizations, was set up in the United States in 1939. It grew into an organization with many achievements to its credit. It has distinguished itself by giving aid to Holocaust survivors, in helping to maintain communities in poor countries, in financing the rescue migration during the War of Independence, and mass immigration after the State was established. The United Jewish Appeal continues to be active in many areas of Jewish need throughout the world. Its income is divided by an agreed formula between Israel, the Joint and the Fund for Social Welfare Activities of American Jewish communities. The United Jewish Appeal held its annual convention in Jerusalem in November 1976 in an effort to emphasize the ties existing between American Jews and Israel, its developments claiming the lion's share of their contributions. On the center of the obverse is n inscription forming the flame of a torch: 'This year in Jerusalem" in Hebrew and English. The inscription below, "United Jewish Appeal", is in English. The reverse depicts a stylized drawing of the Tower of David. The citation in Hebrew and English reads: "For Jerusalem's Sake I will not Rest" (Isaiah 62:1).

22^ND INTERNATIONAL CHESS OLYMPIAD Official Medal 1976 / 5737

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
148.1	16058590	5737	1976	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Zechovoy	3,154		15.00
148.2	26058592			silver .935	59	117	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #	Zechovoy	40		500.00
148.3	26058356			silver .935	35	30		Govt. Mint	80		250.00
148.4	36058358			gold .9166	35	30	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), G 916.6, ser. #	Govt. Mint	20		1,800.00
The International Chess Olympiad takes place once every two years, each time in another country. Israel hosted the Chess Olympiad for the first time in 1964. In 1976 Haifa hosted the 22nd Men's Olympiad, the 7th Women's Olympiad and the 46th Congress of the International Chess Federation, and many famous world champions participated in the event (75 national champions from 52 countries). The obverse depicts the emblem of the International Chess Competition, adorned by an inscription in Hebrew: "Women VII, Men XXII, Israel 5737". The English inscription, carrying the above marks the date 1976. Around the rim is an inscription "Chess Olympiad" in Hebrew and English. Below, the Latin motto of the International Federation: "Gens Una Sumus" (We are all one family). On the reverse appear stylized chess pieces upon a stylized chess board. Below, in small Hebrew letters: "Shamir Bros" (the designers).

1977

JERUSALEM INTERNATIONAL BOOK FAIR Official Medal (not sold to public) 1977 / 5737

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
181.1	unlisted	5737	1977	tombac	59	100	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E)	Kretschmer	350		150.00
181.2				silver .935	59	115	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER 935 (H), STERLING (E)		10		1,500.00
The Jerusalem International Book Fair is held biannually in the Binyanei Ha'Ooma convention center. The Book Fair attracts many exhibitors from Israel and worldwide. On the occasion of the 1977 fair, the Jerusalem municipality issued a medal based on a design used on previous occasions, incorporating the City's emblem and logo, and a schematic panorama. The obverse shows a schematic panorama of Jerusalem with the Old City wall in the foreground. The blank space below the ramparts is filled with the text "The Jerusalem International Book Fair 1977" in English. The reverse depicts the emblem of the city of Jerusalem, a rampant lion standing on the wall, olive branches on both sides. The word "Jerusalem" appears in Hebrew, Arabic (the official name "Urshalim El-Quds") and English. This medal has not been documented by the IGCMC and final mintage figures are unknown. The medal is in fact identical to "JERUSALEM - THE MAYOR'S MEDAL FOR OFFICIAL AWARDS" (cat. # SM-74), issued in 1969 for use by Teddy Kollek, Mayor of Jerusalem and awarded to people in Israel and abroad who contributed to the planning, improvement, restoration and beautification of Jerusalem. However, this version differs to the extent that it is not dedicated to a single person, it is not signed by Teddy Kollek, but in contrast to "The Mayors Medal" it commemorated a specific event - the Jerusalem International Book Fair, and bears a date - 1977. Also in contrast to the various versions of "The Mayor's Medal" of which only one copy (or slightly more) were inscribed and dedicated, of the International Book Fair version substantial quantities were produced. Hence, this medal merits listing as a different issue with its own catalog number and date.

BANK LEUMI LE-ISRAEL 75^TH ANNIVERSARY Official Medal (not sold to public) 1977 / 5737

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
149.1	15913595	5737	1977	tombac	59	98	ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	29,974		8.00
149.2	unlisted						State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #		incl.	different edge inscription	150.00
149.3	25913375			silver .935	37	26	ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #	Govt. Mint	3,498		35.00
Bank Leumi is the successor to the Zionist "Anglo-Palestine Company" founded in 1902 which was known as APEC. The main function of APEC was to provide financial aid for the development of Eretz Israel. When the State of Israel was established the bank - then called The Anglo-Palestine Bank - served as a financial arm to the newly formed state. The provisional government signed an agreement with the bank entrusting it with the issuance of the national currency. The bank acted as the official banking agency for the government until the Bank of Israel was established in 1954. The bank's present name, Bank Leumi Le-Israel, dates from 1951. "Balal", as it is often called in short, is one of the two largest banking groups in Israel, frequently interchanging top position with Bank Hapoalim. The obverse shows the bank's 75th Anniversary emblem, the dates being 5662-5732, 1902-1972. "Bank Leumi Le-lsrael B.M." appears in Hebrew and English. On the reverse appears the biblical verse "Thy faithful house and country" (II Samuel 7:16) in Hebrew and English. On the left is a British Mandate 10 Mils coin, symbolizing the history of the bank, entwined with a computer reel and magnetic ribbon, symbols of the future. An unknown quantity of tombac medals exists with edge inscription showing the State emblem and "STATE OF ISRAEL" in Hebrew and English, instead of just "ISRAEL". This variety is undocumented by the IGCMC.

AMERICAN ISRAEL NUMISMATIC ASSOCIATION - AINA 10^TH ANNIVERSARY Official Medal (not sold to public) 1977 / 5737

Cat. # 150.2 - enameled
CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
150.1	15914599	5737	1977	tombac	59	98	ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	2,496		15.00
150.2	unlisted			tombac enameled	59	101			80 (incl.)	Presented to AINA 1977 tour participants	100.00
150.3	15914353			tombac	35	28	ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #		150	Presented to AINA 1977 tour participants	50.00
150.4	25914452			silver .935	45	48	ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #		997		80.00
150.5	35914454			gold .9166	45	60	ISRAEL (H+E), G 916.6, ser. #		1	Presented to AINA President Morris Bram	---
The American Israel Numismatic Association (AINA) was established in 1967. Its aim is to promote knowledge about coins and medals and numismatic details relating to ancient and modern Israel. AINA issues the world's only English-language periodical exclusively dedicated to Israel and Judaic numismatics, "The Shekel". Even though AINA is by definition a US-based association, its membership compasses the world, including a substantial number of members in Israel, several of whom contribute to The Shekel. From time to time AINA organizes numismatic tours to Israel, which includes meetings with local numismatists. Since its foundation until the present, AINA issues yearly membership medals to its members. These medals have become collectors' items. The obverse of this medal is graced by an ancient oil lamp. Its light symbolizing learning and knowledge. The inscriptions read: "American-Israel Numismatic Association" and "10th Anniversary 1967-1977". The AINA seal surrounded by rushing waves, symbolizing feverish activity, appears on the reverse. AINA website

2^ND ARTHUR RUBINSTEIN INTERNATIONAL PIANO MASTER COMPETITION State Medal 1977 / 5737

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
151.1	16060351	5737	1977	tombac	35	25	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Kretschmer	1,720		12.00
151.2	26060353			silver .935	35	30	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), STERLING (E), ser. #	Kretschmer	1,585		40.00
151.3	36060355			gold .9166	35	30	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), G 916.6, ser. #	Govt. Mint	1,491	Arthur Rubinstein's signature on obv.	1,800.00
The 2nd International Piano Master Competition, named after Arthur Rubinstein, took place in 1977 in Jerusalem, marking the Maestro's 90th birthday. Arthur Rubinstein (1887-1982) is considered one of the greatest pianists of all times. Even though he was an agnostic by conviction, he was always proud of his Jewish heritage and considered himself a member of the Jewish nation and a great friend of the State of Israel. The obverse shows the legend "2nd Arthur Rubinstein International Piano Master Competition Jerusalem 1977". The Hebrew version with the year 5737 is inscribed around the rim. The State emblem appears on top. A portrait of Arthur Rubinstein based on a drawing by Pablo Picasso appears on the reverse.

PETAH TIKVA CENTENARY Official Medal 1977 / 5737

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
152.1	16059596	5737	1977	tombac	59	98	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	3,153		8.00
152.2	26059352			silver .935	35	30	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #		2,989		35.00
152.3	36059354			gold .900	35	30	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), G 900, ser. #		1	Issued for use by Petah Tikva municipality	---
Petah Tikva (derived from the biblical quote "Door of Hope") was founded in 1878 by a group of pious Jews from Jerusalem. It was built on swampy land near the Yarkon source and was the first Jewish settlement in the Land of Israel in modern times. Because Petah Tikva was established as a rural, mostly agricultural, settlement (sing. Moshava, plur. Moshavot), it earned the name "Mother of the Moshavot" (Em HaMoshavot). Today Petah Tikva is a large and prosperous commercial and industrial city. The obverse depicts the Petah Tikva municipal emblem, showing a plough and citrus tree. On the left, an olive branch. The inscription in the center reads: "100 Years to Petah Tikva". On the rim, the dates "5638-5738, 1878-1977-8", and the English legend "Petah Tikva centenary". On the reverse appear non-mechanized agricultural tools. a stylized fruit tree and a fence. The inscription above reads: "Mother of the Moshavot". In the center appears the biblical quote "And the valley of Achor to a Door of Hope" and the source "Hosea 2:17". The citation appears in Hosea 2:15 in English Bible translations.

ZIONIST ORGANIZATION OF AMERICA 80^TH CONVENTION Official Medal 1977 / 5737

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
153.1	16061593	5737	1977	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	2,144		9.00
153.2	26061595			silver .935	59	117	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #		19	Issued for use by ZOA	---
The names of many famous Jews are interwoven in the history of the Zionist Organization of America. The best known among them are the President of the Zionist Organization of America - Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis, Louis Lipsky - writer and journalist, and Rabbi Stephen Wise. Among the early activists of the Z.O.A. was Judah Leib Magnes who immigrated to Palestine and became Chancellor-President of the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. In 1977 the Z.O.A. held its 80th annual convention in Israel. On the medal's obverse the figure "80" is entwined in the initials "ZOA", followed by the English legend "National Convention, Fourth in Israel July 6-13, 1977". On the right the Hebrew inscription reads: "Zionist Organization of America, the 80th National Convention - the 4th in Israel 20-27 Tamuz 5737". The reverse shows links of a chain, with the State emblem in the top link and the ZOA emblem in the bottom link. The English inscription reads: "Presented by the Government of Israel". Between the lines of the inscription, olive branches stand out.

TENTH ZIMRIYA Official Medal 1977 / 5737

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
154.1	16062599	5737	1977	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Kretschmer	2,120		12.00
The Tenth Zimriya was held in Jerusalem in 1977. Scores of choirs from Israel and abroad participated. The obverse shows the Zimriya emblem - a clef on a stylized figure of a nightingale, and the inscription "The Tenth Zimriya 5737" in Hebrew and English. The English date is "1977". A stylized panorama of Jerusalem appears on the reverse, as well as the inscription "Jerusalem" in Hebrew and English.

1978

OIL REFINERIES Official Medal 1978 / 5738

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
155.1	16063595	5738	1978	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	1,576		12.00
155.2	26063597			silver .935	59	115	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #		1,415		140.00
The foundations for the Haifa Refineries were laid by the Anglo-Iranian Oil Corporation in 1938. In 1959, ownership was transferred to the Israel Government and since then much has been done to increase production and improve product quality. The Haifa Refinery served as a base for establishing auxiliary industries. With the rise in fuel consumption, another refinery was built in Ashdod. To mark the 40th year of the establishment of the Haifa Refinery, a special medal was issued. The reverse depicts two storage tanks behind a brick wall. The name "Oil Refineries Ltd." appears in Hebrew and English. The refinery is shown on the reverse. The biblical quote on rim reads: "Purified Seven Times" (Psalms 12:7).

THIRTY YEARS OF EXPORT Official Medal 1978 / 5738

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
156.1	16064591	5738	1978	tombac	59	98	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	2,195		10.00
The year 5738, Israel's Thirtieth Anniversary, well reflected the changes that took place in the economy of Israel during its first 30 years. To start with, Israel's exports were based on the food and textile industries, but a dynamic industrialization process broadened the spectrum until they included original products based on science and skills, in metal, electrical products, electronics, chemicals, etc., later supplemented by Israel's high-tech industry. The medal's obverse shows an expanded candelabra entwined with a schematic model of the globe, symbolizing the expansion of Israeli export since the establishment of the State: 1948-1978. The text "Made in Israel" is imprinted in a square resembling a case, symbolizing an export package. On the rim appears the word "Export" in Hebrew and English. The reverse depicts a seven-branched candelabrum entwined with the world's industrial wheels. On the rim is the inscription "Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism" in Hebrew and English.

BAT MITZVAH I State Medal 1978 / 5738

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
157.1	15064598	5738	1978	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Kretschmer		numbered through 4000	20.00
157.2								Hecht		numbered from 4001	20.00
157.3	unlisted			tombac g-p*	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #		included	* gold or aureate plated, edge marking identical to tombac medal	25.00
157.4				cu-ni	39	26	plain				20.00
157.5	25064370	5738	1978	silver .935	37	26	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #	Govt. Mint			50.00
157.6	25064192	5745	1985	silver .935	19	03		Govt. Mint		Issued as pendant	35.00
157.7	25064150	5754	1994	silver .999	15	01.5	reeded	Govt. Mint		Issued as pendant; ISRAEL & IGCMC emblem on rev.	20.00
157.8	35064186	5746	1986	gold .750	18	04.4	reeded			Issued as pendant	200.00
157.9	35064306	5738	1978	gold .750	30	15	reeded	Govt. Mint	2,701		700.00
157.10	35064225	5741	1981	gold .585	22	07	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), G 585, ser. #	Govt. Mint	1,283		250.00
157.11	35064144	5750	1990	gold .750	14	02.05	reeded			Issued as pendant; ISRAEL, IGCMC emblem & gold content .750 on rev.	100.00
157.12	35064136	5741	1981	gold .900	13	01.7	reeded	Hecht & Tadgraph	17,114		100.00
157.13	35064128	5750	1990	gold .585	12.5	01				Issued as pendant; ISRAEL, IGCMC emblem & & gold content .585 on rev.	50.00
Jewish tradition has it that a girl who passes her twelfth birthday by one day, is a "Bat Mitzvah". Sources in Judaism reveal that in distant history girls also celebrated their "Bat Mitzvah". The celebration has recently been revived in many Jewish communities around the world. Judaism did not wish to impose the entire burden of observing all the commandments upon a girl (later, on the woman) and relieved her of such observances that are connected with various occasions, because women bear the burden of raising children. On the other hand, there are observances for girls and women only, such as lighting the Sabbath candles. On the obverse of the candle a girl's head faces two Sabbath candlesticks with candles. The verse around the rim reads: "Arise shine for thy light has come" (Isaiah 60:1), in Hebrew and in English. The State emblem and the emblems of the twelve tribes appear on the reverse. * The silver plated and gold or aureate plated tombac versions are undocumented, and their origin is therefore uncertain.

BAR MITZVAH II State Medal 1978 / 5738


CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
158.1	15066590	5738	1978	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Kretschmer		numbered through 4000	20.00
158.2							State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), BRONZE (H+E), ser. #	Hecht		numbered from 4001	20.00
158.3				cu-ni	39	26	plain				20.00
158.4	25066372	5738	1978	silver .935	37	26	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #	Govt. Mint			50.00
158.5	25066194	5745	1985	silver .935	19	03		Govt. Mint		Issued as pendant	35.00
158.6				silver	18	03	blank				25.00
158.7	25066180	5764	2004	silver	18	03	blank			Uniface, issued as prayer shawl clasp	35.00
158.8	25066152	5754	1994	silver .999	15	01.5	reeded	Govt. Mint		Issued as pendant; ISRAEL & IGCMC emblem on rev.	20.00
158.9	35066308	5738	1978	gold .750	30	15	reeded	Govt. Mint	2,701		700.00
158.10	35066227	5741	1981	gold .585	22	07	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), G 585, ser. #	Govt. Mint	1,238		250.00
158.11	35066188	5746	1986	gold .750	18	04.4	reeded			Issued as pendant	200.00
158.12	35066140	5764	2004	gold .585	14.5	01.8				Uniface, issued as prayer shawl clasp	85.00
158.13	35066146	5750	1990	gold .750	14	02.05	reeded			Issued as pendant; ISRAEL, IGCMC emblem & gold content .750 on rev.	100.00
158.14	35066138	5741	1981	gold .900	13	01.7	reeded	Hecht & Tadgraph	14,142		100.00
158.15	35066120	5750	1990	gold .585	12.5	01				Issued as pendant; ISRAEL, IGCMC emblem & & gold content .585 on rev.	50.00
When a Jewish boy reaches the age of thirteen he is deemed to be an adult as far as his religious duties are concerned. It is traditional to mark the occasion at a public ceremony, and to end the religious ceremony with an appropriate feast in the boy's honor. The first Bar Mitzvah medal (also known as Bar Mitzvah I) was issued on the occasion of the State's thirteenth anniversary in 1961. In view of its popularity the first issue was finally exhausted, prompting the IGCMC to design a new medal in 1978, almost identical to the first issue, but with a raised rim on the medal's reverse.changes. This issue as referred to as Bar Mitzvah II. As with the Bar Mitzvah I issue of 1961, the Bar Mitzvah II issue of 1978 was released in several metal alloys and a variety of sizes. Bar Mitzvah II medals have also been as accessories such as prayer shawl (Tallith) clasps, were issued as keychains or in lucite stands, appear as ornaments in prayer book covers, etcetera. The Bar Mitzvah I and II medals remain by the most popular State medals until this day. The medal's obverse depicts a boy reading from the Torah, and the and the verse "At 13 for fulfilment of the mitzvoth" (Pirke Avoth - Ethics of the Fathers V:24) in Hebrew and English. The reverse shows the State emblem and the emblems of the twelve tribes.

TEACHERS UNION 75^TH ANNIVERSARY Official Medal 1978 / 5738

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
159.1	16065597	5738	1978	tombac	59	98	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), ser. #	Kretschmer	1,485		10.00
159.2	26065379			silver .935	37	26	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), STERLING (E), ser. #	Govt. Mint	2,230		35.00
The Teachers' Union originated as the Organization of Hebrew Teachers in Palestine which was founded in Zichron Ya'akov in 1903. The organization created the first curriculum for elementary schools, and remained for many years the sole institution dealing with the entire gamut of problems concerning Hebrew education in the country. In the course of years, many of the functions of the Teachers Union have been transferred to the National Educational Authorities and to the Ministry of Education after the establishment of the State. Nevertheless, the Teachers' Union, in addition to its concern with the professional problems of those engaged in teaching, continues to care for post graduate studies for teachers, the publishing of texts on education, etc. The reverse of the medal depicts a stylized figure "75" The texts in Hebrew read: "Israel Teachers Union'' and "5663-5738". The English translation and dates "1903-1978" appear on the rim. The reverse shows an open book, and on it the citation "But thine eyes shall see thy teachers" (Isaiah 30:20). The English translation appears on the rim to the left. Above, the figure "75" above a small open book.

WEDDING State Medal 1978 / 5738

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
160.1	15065594	5738	1978	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Hecht			12.00
160.2	25065376	5738	1978	silver .935	37	26	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #	Hecht			35.00
160.3	35065302	5738	1978	gold .750	30	15	Reeded	Govt. Mint	5,182		700.00
160.4	35065221	5741	1981	gold .585	22	01.7	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), G 585, ser. #	Govt. Mint	7,300		60.00
160.5	35065132	5741	1981	gold .900	13	07	Reeded	Hecht & Tadgraph			400.00
A wedding anniversary may have even greater significance than a birthday. Hassidim explain that marriage represents the fulfillment of the day of birth. However, the period of married life is generally longer than that between birth and marriage and as such represents the greater part of one's life on earth. It is considered a good deed to entertain the bride and groom on their wedding day, and this takes the form of being present at their time of joy which should be accompanied with singing, dancing and with gifts. A most appropriate gift for both the bride and groom will be one which will last a lifetime and will serve as a reminder of their wedding day. It should also serve as a token of friendship shown by those who participate at the wedding. The obverse shows an antique marriage ring and the legend "An Everlasting edifice, Seven Benedictions". On the rim below, the English translation. On the reverse appears a stylized canopy, a chalice and the ketuba folio. In the center is a legend in Hebrew: "Love, brotherhood, peace, and friendship." On the rim above, the English translation.

BEIT HATFUTZOTH DIASPORA MUSEUM State Medal 1978 / 5738

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
161.1	15067596	5738	1978	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Kretschmer	4,198		9.00
161.2	25067459			silver .935	45	40	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), STERLING (E), ser. #		2,013		60.00
Beit Hatfutzoth, the Museum of the Jewish Diaspora, was built on the Tel Aviv University Campus. It was dedicated on 15th May 1978 as one of the events marking the 30th Anniversary of Israel's Independence. The permanent exhibit, occupying three floors of the museum, is based on six central themes: family, community, faith, culture, relations with the gentile world, and return to Zion. Although the purpose of Beit Hatfutzoth is to portray the creative aspects of Jewish life in the Diaspora, a powerful expression is found there to the memory of Jewish martyrdom in the fifty-two lit-up scroll-panels, each one depicting a chapter in Jewish persecution. Beit Hatfutzoth also serves as a center for manifold cultural activities, for study and research. On the obverse appears the text "Beit Hatfutzoth" in Hebrew and the English translation "Museum of the Jewish Diaspora". The letter "Tz", the museum emblem, stands out. Above is a Star of David, symbol of the Jewish Diaspora. Obverse The seven branched candelabra and the globe, a symbol of ties between Israel and the Diaspora. Stars of David spread out, an expression of the Diaspora. Below, the verse "I will gather them from the coasts of the earth", Jeremiah 31:8. The English translation is on the rim to the left.

PILGRIMAGE TO THE HOLY LAND State Medal 1978 / 5738

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
162.1	15226150	5755	1994	copper	150	465	plain	Hecht		Uniface	180.00
162.2	15069598	5738	1978	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Kretschmer			8.00
162.3	unlisted	5738	1978	tombac	59	98	plain	Kretschmer	included		?
162.4	25226150	5755	1994	silver .999	150	370	plain	Hecht		Uniface	420.00
162.5	25069451	5738	1978	silver .935	45	40	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), STERLING (E), ser. #	Kretschmer			50.00
162.6	25069346	5746	1986	silver .935	34	22		Kretschmer		Issued in pendant	60.00

Christian pilgrimage to the Holy Land is as old as Christianity itself. Strong is the desire of many Christians to behold with their own eyes the surroundings where Jesus and the apostles were born and where they preached. Reading the Bible becomes more meaningful to a person who has visited the places mentioned therein. In the view of pious Christians, the Holy Land is the center of the world and Jerusalem the center of the Holy Land. This outstandingly attractive medal depicts on its obverse one of the most famous, eccentric, but also beautiful world maps ever made, "Die gantze Welt in ein Kleberblat" (The entire World in a Clover Leaf) by Heinrich Bünting, dating from 1581. The German map shows the three continents Europe, Asia and Africa as clover leaves ("America Die neue Welt" - America the new World - is depicted bottom left), with Jerusalem placed at the center of the world. On the reverse appears the biblical verse "They all gather and come to you" (Isaiah 60:4).

HABIMAH 60^TH ANNIVERSARY State Medal 1978 / 5738

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
163.1	15071595	5738	1978	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Kretschmer	1,964		10.00
163.2	25071458			silver .935	45	47	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), STERLING (E), ser. #		1,889		55.00
From left to right: The 300th performance ad of "The Dybbuk" in Moscow (early 1920s), Hanna Rovina's famous scene from "The Dybbuk", and a newspaper report from 1935.
The "Habimah" Theatre was established in Moscow in 1918 during the Bolshevik Revolution by a group of Jewish youngsters devoted to the Hebrew language. Habimah pioneers proclaimed in the first paragraph of their theatre byelaw "The group is formed so it may afterwards establish the Habimah Theatre in Palestine". As pressure within the Soviet Union against the usage of Hebrew as a language grew, the group forsook Moscow for a series of performances in Europe and the United States. It reached Palestine in 1928. The cornerstone of the present-day Habimah Theatre complex in Tel Aviv was laid in 1935 at a festive ceremony and in 1958, forty years after it was founded in Moscow, the Minister of Education and Culture bestowed on behalf of the Government the title "The National Theatre" to "Habimah". The "Habimah" emblem and the legend "Habimah National Theatre" in Hebrew and English appear on the obverse, as well as the numeral 60 and the dates "Moscow 1918-lsrael 1978". The reverse is graced by the actress Hanna Rovina (1889/1892-1980), who is recognized as the original "First Lady of Hebrew Theatre", here depicted in a scene from "The Dybbuk".

SHAARE ZEDEK Official Medal 1978 / 5739

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
164.1	15072591	5739	1978	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Kretschmer	3,100		9.00
164.2	25072454			silver .935	45	47	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), STERLING (E), ser. #		3,007		70.00
The association of "Shaare Zedek" with the Jewish community in Jerusalem dates back to 1873. At first, from 1892 Shaare Zedek ran a clinic within the Old City under the leadership of Dr. Moshe Wallach, and in 1902 the hospital was inaugurated outside the city walls on Jaffa Street. The hospital served as the people's guardian during times of plagues, in times of war and bloody riots as well as during periods of calm. The State of Israel today maintains a modern comprehensive health service, in which Shaare Zedek has its rightful role. The medical center inaugurated in 1979 has been equipped with the most modern instruments. The new Shaare Zedek Medical Center employs, among other things, innovative technological methods which make strict observance of Halachic regulations possible and at the same time, administers the best medical attention. The obverse depicts the hospital emblem presented as a stylized Star of David. On the rim is the legend "Shaare Zedek Medical Center Jerusalem 5739" in Hebrew. The English translation has the date "1978". The reverse shows the Shaare Zedek hospital buildings inaugurated in 1978. The biblical quote reads: "Open unto me the gates of righteousness" (Psalms 118:19).

1979

JERUSALEM INTERNATIONAL NUMISMATIC MEETING Official Medal 1979 / 5739

Cat. # 165.2 - uniface of reverse
CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
165.1	16069452	5739	1979	tombac	45	40	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	2,945		6.00
165.2	46069458			tin	45	20	blank		352	Uniface, reverse only; presented to participants	80.00
165.3	26069454			silver .935	45	48	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #		2,996		55.00
The TVRRIS DAVIT Crusader coin, original and artist's rendering.
An International Numismatic Meeting meet was held in Jerusalem in 1979. From among the many displays the "Kagan Collection" from the United States stood out. It is the world's most comprehensive collection of coins and banknotes issued by the State of Israel and the Mandatory Governments, as well as State medals and others. issued by the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation. The medal's obverse bears an inscription "Jerusalem International Numismatic Meeting, 1979" in Hebrew and English. Around the inscription, a series of coins and medals issued by the IGCMC. The reverse shows a replica of the obverse of a Crusader Jerusalem coin of the late 12th century. The inscription TVRRIS, "tower" in Latin, refers to the drawing appearing on the Crusader coin. Around is an inscription "David's Tower" in Hebrew and English. A uniface variety minted in tin, showing the reverse of the original medal, was presented to participants in the meeting.

ALBERT EINSTEIN CENTENARY OF BIRTH State Medal 1979 / 5739

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
166.1	15070599	5738	1978	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Kretschmer	3,124		20.00
166.2	25070452			silver .935	45	47	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), STERLING (E), ser. #		2,587		55.00

Albert Einstein (1879-1955), one of the great physicists of the all times, renowned humanitarian and Nobel Prize winner arrived in the United States in 1933. He served as professor at Princeton University until his retirement in 1945. "Einstein's Theory of Relativity" revolutionized theoretical physics causing the development of the atomic theory-Einstein became attracted to Zionism in 1921. He was among the leading activists on behalf of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. In 1946 he appeared before the Anglo-American Commission of Inquiry pleading the cause of Jewish Palestine. He appeared as a guest speaker at the first Independence Day celebration. He bequeathed his manuscripts to the Hebrew University, including his article on general relativity. A likeness of Einstein, according to the sculpture by the English sculptor Sir Jacob Epstein (1933) in the entrance to the Mathematics Institute of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, graces the obverse of the medal. The legend reads: "Albert Einstein 5639-5715". The English dates are "1879-1955". The reverse shows a mathematical formula in Einstein's handwriting. Around the rim appears the legend "Jerusalem Centennial Symposium, Adar 5739" in Hebrew. The English translation bears the date "March 1979".

FOOD INDUSTRY Official Medal 1979 / 5739

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
167.1	16066593	5739	1979	tombac	59	98	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	2,600		9.00
Israel's food industry is based on local agriculture which supplies the raw materials. Sun, soil and progressive agriculture practices have combined to produce record yields, part of which is channeled to the food industry. Israel is also a major exporter of food products, which are widely sold in kosher stores worldwide. The obverse of the medal depicts products that are representative for the local food industry, such as a sausage, fish, wine, beverage, chocolate bar, cookie, bread, nuts, candies, fruits and canned food. The reverse depicts a seven-branched candelabrum entwined with the world's industrial wheels. On the rim is the inscription "Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism" in Hebrew and English.

ISRAEL-EGYPT PEACE State Medal 1979 / 5739

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
168.1	15068592	5739	1979	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Kretschmer	32,974	numbered through 2001*	20.00
168.2								Hecht		numbered from 2001*	8.00
168.3	25068594			silver .935	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), STERLING (E), ser. #	Kretschmer	10,676	numbered through 1000*	140.00
168.4							State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #	Hecht		numbered from 1001*	120.00
168.5	25068455			silver .935	45	47	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), STERLING (E), ser. #	Kretschmer	15,549	numbered through 10500*	55.00
168.6							State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #	Emanograph		numbered 10501-15970*	55.00
168.7							State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), STERLING (E), ser. #	Kretschmer		numbered from 15971*	55.00
168.8	35068350			gold .900	35	30	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), GOLD 900, ser. #	Govt. Mint	8,162		1,500.00
In November 1977, Anwar El Sadat, President of Egypt, took the first courageous step towards attaining peace between the Arab states and Israel, by making a State visit to Jerusalem as the guest of the Government and by declaring "No more war". Negotiations followed, at first in Jerusalem and in Cairo, and later at Camp David in the USA, with the active participation of President Jimmy Carter. The peace treaty was signed in Washington 26 March 1979. The treaty bears the signatures of Menachem Begin, Prime Minister of Israel and Anwar Al Sadat in the name of the Arab Republic of Egypt. The treaty also bears the signature of Jimmy Carter as a witness. To honor the historic occasion, a special State medal was. In the center of the obverse is a square formed by the word "Shalom", Salaam", and "Peace". Below the square is the date according to the Hebrew, Islamic Hijri and Gregorian calendar - 5739, 1399, 1979. Around the rim appears the legend "Israel-Egypt Peace Treaty Jerusalem, Cairo, Washington" in Hebrew, Arabic and English. On the reverse the sun, symbol, of hope, shines over Mt. Sinai. On the rim appears the verse "I will give peace in the land - Leviticus 26:6" in Hebrew, English and Arabic. * The breakdown of serial numbers between Mints gives a larger quantity than the final mintage figures, because the specification of melted medals is unknown.

JERUSALEM ROTARY JUBILEE Official Medal 1979 / 5739

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
169.1	16067450	5739	1979	tombac	45	40	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), ser. #	Kretschmer	1,762		12.00
169.2	26067452			silver .935	45	40	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), STERLING (E), ser. #		1,473		100.00
The Jerusalem Rotary Club, the first Rotary Club in Eretz Israel, was founded in 1929, sponsored by the Cairo Rotary. The Jerusalem Club celebrated its jubilee during the same month that the Peace Treaty between Egypt and Israel was signed. On the medal's obverse, a stylized figure "50" is formed by the Rotary wheel together with an olive branch, the symbol of peace. Below is the inscription "Jerusalem Rotary Jubilee" in Hebrew and English. Jerusalem sights, sacred to the three monotheistic faiths, grace the reverse. "Jerusalem" appears in English, Hebrew and Arabic.

11^TH HAPOEL GAMES Official Medal 1979 / 5739

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
170.1	16068595	5739	1979	tombac	59	98	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	1,968		10.00
"Hapoel" a sports organization, connected to the General Federation of Labour, was founded in Haifa in 1924. "Hapoel" was a pioneer in water sports, and "Hapoel Units" fulfilled defense roles. "Hapoel" has hundreds of branches throughout the country, many of them in immigration settlements and in workers villages. The first National Congress took place in 1928. At later congresses Labour sports organizations from abroad participated. The 11th Congress took place in 1979. On the medal's obverse appears the emblem of the 11th Hapoel Games sand the inscription: "Hapoel Games". The number "11" is stylized as a hurdle, symbolizing athletics. On the rim is the Hebrew, Arabic and English inscription: "Many and Medalists", a motto characteristic of popular sports' organizations. The reverse depicts athletes engaged in various sports activities and a citation from Isaiah (40:31), "They shall run and not be weary". The English tanslation appears on the bottom rim.

JEWISH AGENCY JUBILEE State Medal 1979 / 5739

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
171.1	15073597	5739	1979	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Emanograph	3,039	numbered through 2997	8.00
								Hecht		numbered from 2998	150.00
The founding convention of the "Jewish Agency for Palestine" took place in Zurich in 1929. Half of those who attended the convention were representatives of the World Zionist Organization, elected by the Zionist Congress, and the other half were representatives of organizations and important personalities not identified with Zionism. The Jewish Agency came to fulfill an important role in education, mobilizing and activating the Jewish people to prepare Palestine for a renewal of national independence, as well as for large migration. Upon the establishment of the State, which opened its gates wide to mass immigration, the Zionist executive concluded that the task of immigration and absorption cannot be borne by the Israeli government alone but was an obligation which the entire Jewish people, wherever they are, must assume. The Jewish Agency undertook to organize immigration, assist in absorption in Israel, be concerned with youth immigration and participate in the budget for education and health. The obverse shows the emblem of the Jewish Agency. Around the rim, the inscription in Hebrew and English reads: "Jewish Agency for Israel Jubilee 5689-5739, 1929-1979". The reverse depicts a fractional reproduction of the Star of David, the immigrants disembarking from a ship, completing the Star of David. A citation from Zachariah 8:8 "And I will bring them in and they will be my people". The English translation appears on the rim. Remark: All medals are uniformly rotated (see image).

NATHANYA JUBILEE Official Medal 1979 / 5739

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
172.1	16070592	5739	1979	tombac	59	98	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	3,356		8.00
172.2	26070358			silver .935	35	30	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), SILVER 935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #	Gov't. Mint	1,813		55.00

Nathanya was founded in 1929. The nucleus came from "Bnei Benyamin" members of settlements who desired to establish a new agricultural settlement of their own. Over the years the agricultural character of Nathanya began to change. Shops and industrial enterprises began to develop. The most notable among them, the diamond industry. Another industry which developed very rapidly was tourism because of its resort facilities. Nathanya also serves as the centre for citrus packing of the entire Sharon region. Nathanya was awarded municipal status during the year Israel became independent, 1948. In the course of time, other suburbs in the vicinity opted to become part of the city. The medal's obverse depicts the Nathanya municipal emblem, the inscription "50th Jubilee Nathanya" and the date "5739-1978/79" in Hebrew and in English. A stylized panorama of Nathanya's seafront graces the reverse. On the rim appears the biblical verse "For thy city and thy people are called by thy name" (Daniel 9:19), in Hebrew and English.

ISRAEL RAILWAYS Official Medal 1979 / 5739

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
173.1	16072594	5739	1979	tombac	59	98	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	4,432		10.00
Jaffa-bound train boarding at Jerusalem station, mid-1890s. The sign on the station wall reads "Quds Sharif" (Noble Jerusalem).
The first railway linking Jaffa and Jerusalem commenced operations in 1892. The British Mandatory regime continued development, but during the first three decades of Israel's independence its railways were only of secondary concern, falling victim to a preference of road traffic over rail transportation. Since the 1990s, however, Israel's railway system is undergoing a true metamorphosis, with the construction of new lines, doubling of track, addition of modern and comfortable rolling stock, building of many new stations and upgrading of all others. From 121 track km (75 mi) operable following the War of Independence, Israel's railway network has grown to 975 track km (606 mi) in 2009. The medal was issued to commemorate the construction of the recently completed Negev desert line, directly linking the nation's large phosphate deposits to the ports of Ashdod and Haifa. The obverse depicts the old logo of Israel Railways and a stretch of rail. The citation, extending over three lines reads: "Make straight in the desert a highway" (Isaiah 40:3). The English translation appears on the rim. The reverse shows a Baldwin steam locomotive in use in Palestine during the late 19th and early 20th century, respectively by the Ottomans and the British. To the right appears a diesel engine in use for passenger traffic until less than a decade ago.

ISRAEL-MEXICO Official Medal 1979 / 5740

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
174.1	16071598	5740	1979	tombac	59	90	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), ser. #	Emanograph	5,274	4,977* minted	8.00
								Hecht		326* minted
174.2	26071401			silver .935	40	33.6	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), SILVER (H), STERLING 925 (E), ser. #	Mexico	3,991		45.00
174.3	36071380			gold .900	38	34.6	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), G 900, ser. #	Mexico	2,003		1,700.00
174.4	36071306			gold .900	30	17.3		Govt. Mint	2,699		850.00
In 1979 an exhibition of Israeli coins took place in Mexico City, while at the same time in Jerusalem an exhibition of coins issued by "Banco de México", was being held. To mark the occasion, a special two-sided medal was issued. On the Israeli side of the medal - a stylized seven-branched candelabrum, one of the notable objects both in the Tabernacle, set up by the Children of Israel in the desert, and in the Temple in Jerusalem. It was chosen as the State emblem of the re-established Israel in 1948. On the Mexican side - one theme has artistic significance while the other is a likeness of Quetzalcoatl, one of the more prominent idols of Mexican mythology. He is considered a benign deity who granted humanity life, culture and art. The obverse depicts the stylized seven-branched candelabrum and the inscription "Israel Coin Exhibition, Mexico 5740" in Hebrew and English which notes the date as " 1979". On the reverse appears the figure of a serpent, from the sculptures appearing in the Temple-fortress of Quetzalcoatl in Tiotixuaguan. The inhabitants there during the 2nd and 3rd centuries, developed a high degree of civilization and a rich culture, influencing all parts of Central America. The inscription in Spanish reads: "Exposicion de Moneda del Banco de México, Jerusalen, 1979". * The breakdown of mintage figures between Mints gives a larger quantity than the final mintage figures, because the specification of melted medals is unknown.

1980

KEREN HAYESOD 60^TH ANNIVERSARY Official Medal 1980 / 5740

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
175.1	16073590	5740	1980	tombac	59	98	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	4,481		8.00
Keren Hayesod and the United Israel Appeal were the central fund raising agencies for the World Zionist Organization, afterwards the Jewish Agency, for financing the development of Israel. The fund was established in London in 1920, in order to implement an extensive Zionist development program. Before the State was established, the proceeds of Keren Hayesod were devoted to immigration, absorption, settlement, education, development, water resources, public works, investment in economic enterprises (electricity, potash, Zim, etc.) and building the Tel Aviv port. With the establishment of the State, many of these responsibilities were taken over by the Government, while Keren Hayesod devoted itself to financing immigration, absorption and settlement. Obverse In the centre, a stylized form of the globe. Upon it the figure "60" and the initials of Keren Hayesod in Hebrew and English. Around the globe an inscription in Hebrew: "Keren Hayesod 5680-5740". The name Keren Hayesod in English with the dates: "1920-1980". On the rim, the inscription: "United Israel Appeal" in Hebrew and English. Reverse A stylized form of a key within which there is the emblem of Keren Hayesod and a Star of David. On the side a citation: 'The Key is in the hands of the Jewish People 5680". On the rim there is the English translation and the date "1920".

SHEMA ISRAEL HEAR O ISRAEL State Medal 1980 / 5740



CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
176.1	15074593	5740	1980	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Hecht			15.00
176.2	78019708	5754	1994	zinc-alum.	19	05				Issued as lapel pin, redesigned reverse	30.00
176.3	25074375	5740	1980	silver .935	37	26	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #	Govt. Mint			30.00
176.4	25074278	5740	1980	silver .925	27	12	reeded	Govt. Mint			35.00
176.5	25074197	5746	1986	silver .935	19	03		Govt. Mint		Issued as pendant	25.00
176.6	25074180	5764	2004	silver	18	03	blank			Uniface, issued as prayer shawl clasp	35.00
176.7	25074155	5754	1994	silver .999	15	01.5				Redesigned reverse	20.00
176.8	35074301	5740	1980	gold .750	30	15	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), G 750, ser. #	Govt. Mint			700.00
176.9	35074220	5740	1980	gold .585	22	07	reeded	Govt. Mint			250.00
176.10	35074181	5743	1983	gold .750	18	04.4				Issued as pendant	200.00
176.11		5740	1980	gold .750	15	02.0	blank			Uniface	100.00
176.12	35074149	5750	1990	gold .750	14	02.05				Redesigned reverse	100.00
176.13	35074131	5741	1981	gold .900	13	01.7	reeded	Hecht & Tadgraph	33,008		100.00
176.14	35074123	5750	1990	gold .585	12.5	01				Redesigned reverse	50.00
Shama Yisrael...", "Hear O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is One". Reading this passage is a biblical commandment "And let these words which I command thee this day, be upon thy heart" (Deuteronomy 6:6). "Hear O Israel" is a pronouncement that a Jew hears from the day he is born to the day he dies, constituting a profession of faith in the unity between the Jew and his Maker, repeated daily. It is also a proclamation of the identity of the individual with his people. "Hear O Israel" binds Jews from distant countries who have no other common language. They greet and introduce themselves to each other with the words "Hear O Israel". On the obverse appear the partial citation "Shema Yisrael" (Hear O Israel) in stylized Hebrew letters, the source Deuteronomy 6:4, and the seven-branched candelabrum. On the reverse is the full verse "Hear O Israel, The Lord our God, the Lord is One, DT 6:4" in English, and a Star of David.

3^RD ARTHUR RUBINSTEIN INTERNATIONAL PIANO MASTER COMPETITION State Medal 1980 / 5740

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
177.1	15076595	5740	1980	tombac	59	98	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Hecht	2,477		12.00
177.2	25076377			silver .935	37	26	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), SILVER .935 (H), SILVER (E), ser. #		1,951		35.00
177.3	35076353			gold .9166	35	30	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), G 916.6, ser. #	Govt. Mint	1,493	Arthur Rubinstein's signature on obv.	1,600.00
"para mio amigo Arturo Rubinstein - Picasso el 19.7.58." (for my friend Arthur Rubinstein - Picasso 19th July 1958)
The 3rd International Piano Master Competition, named after Arthur Rubinstein, took place in 1980 in Israel. Arthur Rubinstein (1887-1982) is considered one of the greatest pianists of all times. Even though he was an agnostic by conviction, he was always proud of his Jewish heritage and considered himself a member of the Jewish nation and a great friend of the State of Israel. The obverse shows the legend "3rd Arthur Rubinstein International Piano Master Competition Jerusalem 1980". The Hebrew version with the year 5740 is inscribed around the rim. The State emblem appears on top. A portrait of Arthur Rubinstein based on a drawing by Pablo Picasso appears on the reverse.

DAGON SILO Official Medal 1980 / 5740

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
178.1	16077594	5740	1980	tombac	59	98	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), ser. #	Kretschmer	4,792		8.00
The Dagon silo is a major Haifa landmark, dominating part of the downtown skyline.
The Dagon grain silo is one of Haifa's most conspicuous landmarks, dominating part of the downtown skyline. The granary has given the Haifa Port the most modern facilities for the transportation of grain, by making maximum usage of the large installations and its numerous mechanical devices. The granary, an important factor in the Israeli economy, has achieved world records in its operations and has been awarded labor prizes as well as international recognition. The "Dagon" medal was issued to mark the corporation's 30th anniversary. The silo also houses a grain museum. The medal's obverse depicts a stylized relief of the "Dagon" building flanked by a vessel, and the inscription "Dagon" in Hebrew and English. The reverse features an antique jug for storing grain. Beneath is the inscription "Thou mayest gather in thy grain" (Deuteronomy 11:14) in Hebrew and English. Below are three sheaves. On the rim, the inscription: "Dagon Batey-Mamguroth Le-lsrael Ltd. Haifa [Dagon Israel Granary Installations Ltd.]. Serving Israel's Economy and Culture" in Hebrew and English.

MAGEN DAVID ADOM JUBILEE Official Medal (not sold to public) 1980 / 5740

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
179.1	16078590	5740	1980	tombac	59	98	IGCMC emblem, I.G.C.M.C. (H+E), ser. #	Kretschmer	4,990		15.00
Ever since 1930, when Magen David Adom (Red Magen David) was founded, it has given first aid service, ambulance services and blood bank services. It also serves as an auxiliary to the IDF health services, in peace and in war. Magen David Adom is spread from Kiryat Shmona in the north to Eilat in the south, and owns a large and modern fleet of ambulances, mobile blood banks and special ambulances equipped to give first aid to heart patients. On the obverse appears a stylized relief of a Star of David upon a background of shades of other shields. On the rim, to the right, the inscription in Hebrew reads: "Magen David Adorn in Israel 50th Jubilee 5690-5740". The English translation marks the dates as "1930-1980". The reverse is dominated by the inscription in Hebrew "Whoever saves one life has saved an entire world" (Babylonian Talmud, Sanhedrin 4:8, 37a). Within the inscription are depicted a stylized globe, a heart and a drop of blood. The English translation appears on the rim.

ZE'EV JABOTINSKY CENTENARY OF BIRTH State Medal 1980 / 5740

CAT. #		DATE ISSUED		ALLOY	Ø MM	WT. GR.	EDGE & MARKINGS	MINT	MINTAGE	REMARKS	VALUE USD
SHEQEL	IGCMC	Heb.	Civil
180.1	15075701	5740	1980	tombac	70	140	State emblem, STATE OF ISRAEL (H+E), ser. #	Kretschmer	6,088	numbered to 3000	10.00
180.2								Hecht		numbered from 3001	10.00
Ze'ev Vladimir Jabotinsky (1880-1940) had distinguished himself while still a youth in his struggle on behalf of Jewish rights in czarist Russia. During the First World War, he, together with Joseph Trumpeldor, advocated the setting up of a Hebrew army. He enlisted in the "Royal Fusiliers" and with it he reached the Palestine front. During the riots in Jerusalem in 1920 he was the "Haganah" commander. Arrested, he was sentenced to fifteen years with hard labor. After receiving a pardon, he was elected to the Zionist Executive. Later he resigned because of his opposition to the Weizmann Pro-British policy and organized the "New Zionist Organization" based upon his own Revisionist movement. Within the Jewish communities in East Europe, he strongly advocated forsaking the Diaspora en masse and migrating to Palestine "illegally". As a commander of Betar, he prepared the youth belonging to his movement for war in Palestine. He died in New York in the midst of his travels in the United States where he urged the setting up of a Jewish army and the establishment of a Jewish state. In his will he requested that his remains be transferred to Palestine "but only upon orders from the government of the Jewish State which will surely come into being". His remains were transferred to Jerusalem in 1964 by order of Prime Minister Levi Eshkol and accorded a State funeral on Mount Herzl. Ze'ev Jabotinsky was a man of many talents; a gifted statesman, poet, writer, translator and orator. The obverse of the medal is graced by a sculptured likeness of Ze'ev Jabotinsky. His signature appears in Hebrew and English. On the reverse is the Betar emblem, and a quotation from Jabotinsky: "Zion is ours".
catalog numbers 182 through 185 have been reserved for possible undocumented issues to be added at a later stage
Back to Index SHEQEL Catalog © 2007-2016 In memory of Pinchas Bar Zeev - Author & Publisher. All original content remains the intellectual property of original author and/or legal rights holders. 2025 Click here for details.