Golden Gate

GOLDEN GATE
Fifth in the "Gates of Jerusalem" Numismatic Bullion Series

Unlike the other main gates in the Walls of Jerusalem, the Golden Gate was not built by the Turks. It was constructed in the 7th century over ruins dating back to biblical times, possibly even to the time of the first Temple. Decorated with Byzantine-style elements, it has two openings, both of which are sealed.

Facing the Mount of Olives, it is the gate which is closest to where the holy Temple once stood. According to Jewish tradition, the Messiah will enter through this gate and the Golden Gate that exists today was sealed by the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman in 1541 to prevent the entrance of the Messiah. The Moslem cemetery located close to the gate was also to hinder the coming of the Messiah. Since, according to Jewish tradition, Elijah the Prophet is to pass through this gate to herald the coming of the Messiah, it was thought that being of priestly descent, Elijah would be forbidden to pass through a graveyard.

According to Christian tradition, the gate is called "Golden Gate" because it is said that Jesus entered Jerusalem through this Gate.

Obverse: Golden Gate, inscription in English and Hebrew, "Golden Gate", on the gold version "1oz. fine gold.9999, on the silver "1oz. fine silver.999" and the mint year.

Common Reverse of the Series: Stylized map of the Gates in the Wall around the Old City of Jerusalem. border inscription in English and Hebrew, "Gates of Jerusalem" and, below, The Holy Land Mint logo.

Design: Zvika Roitman

Engraving: Tidhar Dagan

Minting: The Holy Land Mint