Fourth International Bible Contest

The Fourth International Bible Contest
State Medal, 5729-1969

The fourth in the series of International Bible Contests was held in Jerusalem in 1969. As in the previous contests, there were participants from all over the world in addition to the Israeli contestants.

Obverse: In the center, a Torah crown. The inscription "T.N.K.", the initials for Torah, Neviim, Ketobim (the three main divisions of the Bible - Pentateuch, Prophets, and Writings). On the rim below, the State emblem. Around the rim 'The Fourth International Bible Contest, Jerusalem 5729" in Hebrew and French, the date being "1969".

Reverse: Below, an antique Jewish oil lamp with a panel containing the seven branch candelabra. Above, the verse "How I loved Thy teachings" in large letters in Hebrew. A semicircle above the verse, the same verse in a archaic Greek, according to the Septuagint.

Edge: The State emblem and the words, "State of Israel" in Hebrew and English. The gold medals are marked "G916.6"

Designer: Rothschild and Lippmann ("Roli").

Engraving: Kretschmer.

Mint: Bronze - Kretschmer, 966 medals, Hecht, 3422 medals. Silver and Gold - Kretschmer.