Hanukka Lamp from France

Hanukka Lamp from France
Hanukka Coin, 5739-1978

The thirteenth in the series of Hanukka coins depicts a Hanukka lamp from France from the collection of the Israel Museum, Jerusalem. It was made by a Jewish silversmith in the 14th century. The design on the triangular back panel is somewhat reminiscent of the facade of a gothic cathedral, with twelve gates, apparently symbolic of the gates of the Temple of Jerusalem and the twelve tribes of Israel.

Obverse:
The face value "25 Lirot" in Hebrew. The word "Israel" in Hebrew, Arabic and English and the mint year "5739-1978"

Reverse:
A Hanukka lamp from France. The inscription in Hebrew "A Hanukka lamp from France, 14th century".

Edge:
On the B.U. coin the edge is smooth, the proof, milled.

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

Designer:
Nathan Karp.

Mint:
B.U. Coin - Israel Government Mint, Jerusalem.
Proof coin - Royal Canadian Mint, Ottawa.