Hershele

HERSHEL OF OSTROPOL
Official Medal 2008/5768
Second Medal in the Series “Jewish Folktales”

This series of medals introduces us to the enchanted world of Jewish Folktales – stories that exemplify the special humor and wisdom of the Jewish people.
The second medal in the series honors Hershele of Ostropol, the legendary Yiddish “court jester” and one of the most famous characters in Jewish folklore. Known for his cunning and cleverness, his sharp sarcastic wit and legendary pranks often targeted the rich and powerful. Existing in poverty, often not knowing from where his next meal would come, Hershele mocked human weakness, and mixed laughter with tears in typically Jewish humor.

Obverse: On the medal face, Hershele appears as a devilish lad against a background of a typical Jewish village.

Reverse: The reverse side is in common with all of the medals in this series, showing a grandfatherly figure telling a tale to his grandchildren and strengthening the ties that bind the generations, old and young alike, together.

Edge:
Gold and Silver medals: Smooth.
Bronze medal: Milled.

Designer: Aharon Shevo.

Engraving: USA.

Mint:
Silver and Bronze medals: USA.
Gold medal: ICMC Mint.