Mahane Yehuda Market

Mahane Yehuda Market
11th in the "Jerusalem of Gold" Bullion Coin Series
Legal Tender issued by the Bank of Israel

The 2021 Bullion Coin spotlights Mahane Yehuda Market, Jerusalem's largest and most interesting market, located in the center of the city.
The coin's vibrant design aptly depicts the market - a bustling center, alive from early morning until night, in its unique Jerusalem setting.
Thousands visit the market every day - people of all ages who come with their baskets to buy or just to have fun, as well as tourists from all over the globe. All enjoy a unique Jerusalem experience, shopping and tasting the famous Hummus of Jerusalem (a chickpea spread), Tehina (ground sesame seeds), Halva (sweet Tehina) and other delicacies. The array of colors and fragrance of the spices together with the energetic shouts of the stallholders contribute to the market's special atmosphere.
Originally established at the end of the 19th century in the Ottoman period and developed during the British Mandate period, Mahane Yehuda Market has undergone many changes over the years. Today, it is a blend of old and new, both a traditional market and a great tourist attraction with its restaurants, bars, evening musical events and street shows.

Obverse: To the left, stalls, stallholders and shoppers represent the traditional market, to the right, people sitting and talking by a bar table represent the restaurants and bars. Above left in the background is the Tower of David, symbolizing Jerusalem and the unique Jerusalemite atmosphere. Above center is an artistic element symbolizing the sun and crescent moon within it, which represents the bustling life in the market from morning to night. In the upper area is the face value and mint year in Hebrew and English and Star of David mintmark. Around the border is the word “Jerusalem” in English, Hebrew and Arabic with the metal fineness and weight, “1 oz. fine gold .9999” in Hebrew and English.

Common Reverse of the Series: The Lion of Megiddo with its stylized curved tail, taken from an ancient 8th century BCE seal excavated in Megiddo (Armageddon) in the Jordan Valley, that belonged to Shema, servant of King Jeroboam II. Above the lion is the Israel State Emblem and below it, “Israel” in English, Hebrew and Arabic. 

Design: Meir Eshel
Finish: Brilliant Uncirculated
Mint: Royal Dutch Mint