Abraham and Sarah

ABRAHAM AND SARAH
OFFICIAL MEDAL 5766/2006
1st in the “Monitin” Series of 4 Medals

In the language of the Midrash, “Monitin” means coins, similar to the term used in many other languages – Money, Moneta and Monnaie. According to the Midrash, since a coin travels the world, “He who has a coin bearing his name…… is known and recognized by all.” In modern Hebrew, “Monitin” means reputation or renown. The Midrash mentions the coins issued in honor of four biblical personalities - Abraham, Joshua, David and Mordechai – and describes both sides of the coins. The Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation decided to issue medals with the designs of the coins described in the Midrash. A competition was conducted among students at the Emunah Art Academy for Women, under the direction of Meir Eshel. The first medal is dedicated to Abraham and Sarah. The Midrash describes “an elderly man and elderly woman on one side, a boy and girl on the other”. The coin symbolizes the miracle of the birth of Isaac to such elderly parents.

Obverse: The images of Abraham and Sarah with a tree planted in the ground behind them; the inscription “ABRAHAM AND SARAH COIN” appears in Hebrew and English along the upper section of the medal.

Reverse: The images symbolizing the new generation with 18 stars above them; the verse “I WILL MAKE OF THEE A GREAT NATION” is inscribed in Hebrew and English from the upper section of the coin, along the edges.

Edge: State emblem with the words "STATE OF ISRAEL" inscribed in Hebrew on the right and in English on the left; the metal and serial number.

Designer: Obverse: Tamar Tzohar. Reverse: Moriya Levi.

Engraving: Romania.

Mint: Silver and Bronze Medals: Romania. Gold medal: Israel Coins and Medals Mint