The Gideonim

The Gideonim
Official Award Medal, 5728-1968

"Gideonites" is the nickname given to those working the communication centers of the Haganah, especially on the clandestine immigration ships. The "Gideonite" medal was issued in conjunction with the 20th anniversary of the State of Israel.

Obverse: Around the rim, an inscription "Israel's 20th Anniversary" in Hebrew. The English translation bears the dates "1948-1968". In the center, the State emblem. Above the menorah, the number "20" and below the word "Israel".

Reverse: Above, a relief outline of the shores of Israel. Barbed wire fences are clearly seen. The blockade running ship bursts through the barrier and approaches the shore where figures, arms outstretched, are seen ready to receive the immigrants. Below a line drawn from the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea is the inscription "In memory of the great days of the Gideonites."

Edge: The State emblem and the words "State of Israel" in Hebrew and English.

Designer: Obverse - Yitzhak Pugacz. Reverse - Dodo Shenhav.

Engraving: Kretschmer.

Mint: Kretschmer.