Israels 50th Anniversary

50th Anniversary of The State of Israel
Independence Day Coin 1998/5758

"If you will it – it is no dream". These words were spoken by Theodore Herzl, visionary of the Jewish State, more than 50 years before the establishment of the State of Israel. This dream has become a reality.

On May 14, 1948 - 5 Iyar 5708, 1878 years after the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem and 51 years after the First Zionist Congress in Basel under the leadership of Herzl, The National Council, headed by David Ben Gurion, proclaimed the establishment of a Jewish State in the Land of Israel. This was the realization of the hopes and prayers of Jews for generations, from all parts of the Diaspora, to return to the Land of their forefathers.

With the realization of the Zionist dream 50 years previously, millions of pioneers came to toil the land, nurture the wilderness and build a Jewish Homeland. Their efforts led to momentous achievements over the first 5 decades of the State. Israel has continued to struggle for its security while constantly clinging to hopes for peace with its neighbors.

Obverse: Face value in Hebrew and English, Israel State Emblem, "Israel" in English, Hebrew and Arabic, border inscription "ISRAEL’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY, 1998" in Hebrew and English.

Reverse: The national flag waving on a background of glowing Stars of David, with the inscription "ISRAEL’S JUBILEE YEAR" in Hebrew and English around the border.

Edge: Silver Prooflike Coin – Smooth Silver Proof and Gold Coins – Milled

Mint Marks: Silver Prooflike Coin – Star of David Silver Proof and Gold Coins – Hebrew letter "Mem"

Designer: Asher Kalderon

Plaster Models: Tidhar Dagan

Dies: Royal Dutch Mint

Mint: Royal Dutch Mint