Sir Moses Montefiore

Sir Moses Montefiore
State Medal, 5744 - 1984

Description of the medal
Sir Moses Montefiore, one of the best-known British Jews of all time, is remembered for his journeys to champion oppressed Jews, his philanthropy and a life-long devotion to the Land of Israel. In 1837, at the age of 53, the City of London chose him as one of its two Sheriffs and, during his year in office, he was knighted and became Sir Moses Montefiore. Subsequently, Queen Victoria granted him the hereditary rank of Baronet.
He intervened on behalf of Damascus Jews who were accused of ritual murder.
He visited the Holy Land seven times and promoted education and welfare of the Jewish population, as well as fostering employment in agriculture and industry.
The Sir Moses Montefiore State Medal marks the bicentenary of his birth and the centenary of his death in 1885

Obverse
Sculptured portraits of Sir Moses and Judith Montefiore and their names and the dates in Hebrew and English: "1784-1862. Moses and Judith Montefiore 1784-1885".

Reverse
The house of Mishkenot Shaananim and its name in Hebrew and English. On the background, the windmill of Yemin Moshe in Jerusalem. The verse in Hebrew and English: "For it is time to favour her for the set time is come" (Psalms 102,14).
Edge
The emblem of the State of Israel, the words "State of Israel" in Hebrew and English, metal content and the serial number.

Serialization
All the medals are numbered.
Bronze - 1999 numbered, 76 melted.
Silver - 1543 numbered, 52 melted.
Gold - 1050 numbered, 5 melted.

Designer
Obverse - Lellya Zual David
Reverse - Jacob Zim

Engraving
Moshe Nov

Mint
Gold and bronze coins - Moshe Hecht
Silver coin - The Government Mint, Jerusalem