Ashkelon

Ashkelon
State Medal, 5725-1965

Ashkelon is mentioned as early as 1280 B.C.E. in a testimony dealing with the conquests of Ramses II. The children of Israel captured Ashkelon after Joshua died but it only became important port city during the Hellenistic times. It was never conquered by the Maccabees although Jews did live there. Herod, who was born in Ashkelon, adorned the city with many edifices. In 11 53 the city fell to the Crusaders, and in 1270 the Mamelukes captured it, destroyed it and its ruins, a small town was built called Midgedal. In 1948 the Israel Defense Forces captured Midgedal around which a modern city was built with its former ancient name of Ashkelon being given to it.

Obverse: A corner in Ashkelon where a Corinthian capital is shown dating from the Hellenistic era. On the side, new public edifices, on the rim, the inscription "Ashkelon" in Hebrew and English.

Reverse: In the center a replica of an antique bronze Ashkelon coin. It shows the prow of a vessel and oars. Above the model of the vessel, Greek letter abbreviating the word Ashkelon. Below, letters marking the year 57 according to the city's new date (47 B.C.E.) On the medal rim, above, the inscription: "Ashkelon coin 47 B.C.E.", 3713 in Hebrew.

Edge: The State emblem and the words "State of Israel" in Hebrew and English. The silver medals bear "Silver 935" in Hebrew and "Silver" in English.

Serialization: All medals have been numbered.

Designer: Alex Berlyne.

Engraving: Kretschmer.

Mint: Kretschmer.