Joy of Youth, Bar Mitzva

JOY OF YOUTH – BAR MITZVAH
State Medal, 2005/5765

When a Jewish boy reaches the age of thirteen, he is considered an "adult" and traditionally, a Bar Mitzvah celebration is held in his honor. The first Bar Mitzvah Medal was issued in 1961, at the 13th Anniversary of the State of Israel. A second medal with similar design was issued in1978. In 2004, a public design contest was organized for a new Bar Mitzvah Medal and it was won by two talented Israeli girls, Liron Tobol and Shiri Tsarfati. Thus, came a third Bar Mitzvah Medal with a fresh, young design.

Obverse: An open Scroll of the Law with the word "Mazel Tov" in Hebrew inscribed on it. Above the Scroll, the head of a Bar Mitzvah boy, wearing his Tefillin (Phylacteries). In the upper border, a quotation in Hebrew from a popular Israeli song, composed by Bezalel Aloni and sung by the late Israeli star singer, Ofra Haza "Give us light and the joy of youth". In the lower border, "Give us peace and joy".

Reverse: A wish for success in Hebrew and a shooting star with inscription "Your star will shine".

Edge: Israel State Emblem, "State of Israel" in Hebrew and English, metal and serial number.

Designer: Medal Face (Bar Mitzvah side): Liron Tobol and Shiri Tsarfati. Reverse: Osnat Eshel

Engraving: Bulgaria.

Mint: Silver and Bronze Medals: Bulgaria. Gold Medals: ICMC Mint.