Teddy Kollek

Teddy Kollek
Official Medal 2002/5762
Medal in honor of Teddy Kollek's 90th Birthday.

Teddy Kollek is the personality most identified with Jerusalem. He was born in Austria in 1911 and immigrated to Israel in 1935. During World War II, he assisted in operations against the Nazis and in rescuing Jews from the Extermination Camps. Between 1947-52, he was active in the Haganah and later worked for the Israel Foreign Ministry in the United States. In 1952, he was called by David Ben Gurion to serve as Director of the Prime Minister's Office. In this capacity, he was responsible for the Government Institutions and Authorities and established, among others, the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation. In 1965 he was elected as Mayor of Jerusalem and during his period of office the population of Jerusalem tripled. He protected the archaeological and unique cultural heritage of the City, encouraged democracy, freedom of religion and equality among its citizens. He established splendid cultural centers such as the Museum of Israel.

Obverse: Portrait of Teddy Kollek against the stones of Jerusalem. In the upper border, "Lover and Builder of Jerusalem" in Hebrew, in the lower border, "Teddy Kollek" in Hebrew and English.

Reverse: In the center, the Lion Emblem of Jerusalem, around the border, "Lover and Builder of Jerusalem" inscription in English.

Edge: State emblem with the words "STATE OF ISRAEL" inscribed in Hebrew on the right and in English on the left; the serial number and metal.

Designer: Gabi Neuman.

Engraving: Bulgaria

Mint: Gold – Government Mint, Jerusalem. Silver and Bronze, Bulgaria.