Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, 50th Anniversary

Jubilee of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra
Official Award Medal, 5747-1987

The Israel Philharmonic Orchestra is the oldest musical group in Israel. It was established in 1936 by the violinist Bronislav Huberman and was named the Symphony of the Land of Israel. In 1948 its name was changed to the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra. The orchestra has 110 musicians. It began with 5,000 subscribers. The number grew to 35,000 by 1984. The world's best artists perform in the orchestra. Prominent names include David Oistrakh, Leib Kogan, Isaac Stern and Miechislav Rostropovich. The orchestra's first concert waas under the baton of Maestro Arturo Toscanini. Its repertoire includes the works of Israeli composer such as Ben Haim and others. Since 1968, Zubin Mehta has served as the Philharmonic's musical director. Over the years, many of the world's best known conductors have appeared with the orchestra. The Israel Philharmonic has appeared in North and South America, Western Europe, the Far East and Australia. Its performances have earned it lavish praise and a place as one of the most famous Philharmonic orchestras in the world.

Obverse: Emblem of the Orchestra and the words "Jubilee of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra 1936-1986" in Hebrew and English.

Reverse: A lyre combined with laurel leaves and the verse "With harp and lyre, drums and dance, triumphant cymbals Haleluya" (Psalms 150).

Edge: The Corporation's emblem, its initials IGCMC - in Hebrew and English.

Designer: Obverse - David Ben Hador Reverse - Ruth Lubin

Mint: Hecht