Tiberias

Tiberias
State Medal, 5725-1965

Tiberias was founded in 19 CE on the ruins of a biblical city from the days of the tribe of Naftali. It was an important spiritual center in the Mishnaic and Talmudic periods, and the last seat of the Sanhedrin. The Mishna and the Jerusalem Talmud were completed in Tiberias and it became a focal point for the Hebrew language. After the Arab conquest in 636 CE it became the capital of the Galilee. In 1099 the Crusaders conquered it but after 87 years it fell again into Moslem hands and was destroyed. In 1 560 Suleiman the Great turned over the city to Josef Hanasi who rebuilt its walls. Tiberias became a center and sanctuary to exiles from Spain, many of whom flourished here.

Obverse: A stylized representation of a fisherman and a girl. The fish and the fruit representing the source of livelihood in Tiberias and in the Ginossar Valley. Near the sea an ancient building and in the background the hills of the Galilee. The name of the city "Tiberias" in Hebrew above and in English below.

Reverse: In the center, a replica of a coin minted in 101 CE during the reign of Trajan II. It depicts Hygieia goddess of health, who holds a bowl and serpent and is seated upon a rock whence the hot springs gush. Around Hygieia, the inscription, "Tiberi Claudi, year 81". On the rim, the inscription, "Coin of Tiberias" 3861 in Hebrew above and in English 101 CE.

Edge: The emblem of the State of Israel and the words "State of Israel" in Hebrew and English. On the silver medals "Sterling" in English and "Silver 935" in Hebrew.

Serialization: All the medals are numbered

Designer: Obverse - Mordechai Gumpel. Reverse - Alex Berlyne.

Engraving: Kretschmer

Mint: Kretschmer