For Meritorious Service

Retirement - Meritorious Service
State Medal, 5742-1982

A man retires from work. For a long time his work occupied a major part of his life. He reaches the age of retirement, a stage in life that should be viewed with seriousness as well as appreciation. The entry of the pensioner into the world of retirement and his adaptation to the new life, are not always easy, in spite of all the social laws and the existence of institutions aimed at assisting him. Many of those who retire are filled with the problems of loneliness, exclusion from society and a loss of interest in the world outside of themselves. Paradoxically it is the worker who, all his life, was outstanding at his job, enthusiastic, responsible and devoted to it, who is most sensitive and prone to anxiety.
It is vitally important that the person entering retirement will accept this step with joy and optimism. His supervisors, co-workers, family and friends must make him feel how much they appreciate him and how close they are to him and will remain so in the future. Those entering retirement must be helped to begin their new life on the right foot.
The "Retirement Medal" is intended to express feelings of love, respect and appreciation of the individual who is retiring. It is meant to encourage him to continue his fruitful activities in other areas, no less exciting than his previous work, including volunteer work, communal activities and studies.

Obverse: The passage in Hebrew "And length of days brings understanding" Job 12:12, in stylized letters and around the rim, the English translation.

Reverse: A tree with stylized roots and fruits and the inscription: "For Meritorious Service" in Hebrew and English.

Edge: The emblem of the State of Israel and the words "State of Israel" in Hebrew and English. On the silver medals "Silver 935" in Hebrew and "Silver" in English. On the 14k Gold medals "G. 935" and "Gold" in Hebrew.The edge of the Gold/750 medal is milled.

Serialization: All medals with smooth edge, are numbered.

Designer: Asher Kalderon.

Engraving: Moshe Nov.

Mint:
Bronze and gold - Hecht.
Silver - Israel Government Mint, Jerusalem.

* Issue continues. Quantity not determined.