Israel-Mexico

Israel-Mexico
Official Award Medal, 5740-1979

In 1979 an exhibition of Israeli coins took place in Mexico City, while at the same time in Jerusalem, the capital of Israel, an exhibition of coins issued by "Banco de Mexico", was being held. To mark the occasion, a special two-sided medal was issued. On the Israeli side of the medal - a stylized seven branched candelabra, one of the notable objects both in the Tabernacle, set up by the Children of Israel in the desert, and in the Temple in Jerusalem. It was chosen as the State emblem of the re-established Israel in 1948. On the Mexican side - one theme has artistic significance while the other is a likeness of Quetzalcoatl, one of the more prominent idols of Mexican mythology. He is considered a benign deity who granted man life, culture and art.

Obverse: A stylized seven branch candelabra and above, the inscription: "Israel Coin Exhibition, Mexico 5740" in Hebrew and English which notes the date as " 1979".

Reverse: The figure of a serpent, from the sculptures appearing in the Temple-fortress of Quetzalcoatl in Tiotixuaguan. The inhabitants there during the 2nd and 3rd centuries, developed a high degree of civilization and a rich culture, influencing all parts of Central America. On the rest of the surface the Spanish inscription: "Banco de Mexico coins exhibit, Jerusalem, 1979".

Edge: The emblem of the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation, and its initials in Hebrew and English. The silver medals bear "Sterling 925" in English and "Silver" in Hebrew. The gold medals bear "G 900".

Serialization: All medals are numbered. Bronze - numbered to 5363, 60 have been melted. Silver 40mm - numbered 1 to 1 500: 750 odd-numbered medals have been stamped on edge and numbered by the Mexican Mint, 750 even-numbered medals stamped by Hecht, Tel Aviv. Gold 38mm - 500 medals of which 250 odd-numbered were stamped and numbered by the Mexican Mint, and 250 even-numbered stamped by Hecht, Tel Aviv. The balance have all been stamped by Hecht.

Design:
The Israeli side - Gad Almaliach. The Mexican side - Reyes Santana.

Engraving: Tidhar Dagan

Mint: Bronze - Amnograph 4977 medals, Hecht 326 medals. Gold 30mm - Israel Government Mint, Jerusalem. Gold and silver 40mm - Mexican Government Mint.