Let My People Go

''Let My People Go''
Special Coin Issue 5731-1971

The events taking place in Israel, since the establishment of the State, were closely followed by the masses of Russian Jewry. However, the Jewish awareness was perceptibly increased by the Six-Day War. The fear for the fate of a State fighting for its very existence vanished as a result of Israel's victory. A feeling of pride straightened the backs of the Russian Jews in their hostile environment. In various parts of Russia groups were formed to study Hebrew and the history of the Jewish people. The awakening of Jewish feelings turned into an open national movement and the "Movement for Emigration to Israel" assumed the leadership.

Obverse: Right, the face value "10 Israeli Lirot" in Hebrew on the silver coin and " 100 Israeli Lirot" on the gold coin. Left, the Israel State Emblem, around the upper left border, the mint year "5731-1971". Below, the word "Israel" in Hebrew, Arabic and English.

Reverse: Vertical panels of irregular width through which the sun is visible. The wider panel on the right carries the motto "Let My People Go" in Hebrew and English.

Edge: Gold coin - milled, Silver coin - smooth

Mint Marks:
Hebrew letter "Mem" on the proof coin, and on the B.U. coin the Star of David, centered in the lower border.

Designer: Jacob Zim.

Mint:
Silver B.U. and Proof- Israel Government Mint, Jerusalem.
Gold - Swiss Federal Mint, Berne, Switzerland.