Jerusalem Reunited, 30 Years

Jerusalem Reunited, 30 Years
State Medal 1997/5757

During the first two days of the Six Day War (June 5-6, 1967), Jerusalem and its inhabitants were bombarded by the Jordanian army. In the wake of this, on June 7, the first paratroopers stormed through the Lion’s Gate at 9:50 and marched towards the Temple Mount. With indescribable exhilaration, they kissed the stones of the Western Wall, the last remains of the Temple. The battle ended within a few hours and Jerusalem was reunited as one city. The holy sites were liberated for the benefit of all nations of the world.

30 years later, this same sense of spiritual elevation that pounded in the hearts of the Jewish People in Israel and around the world, the feeling that history was being rewritten right before our eyes, culminating a chapter from 2000 years ago, continue to fill our hearts and souls.

The medal commemorates the touching moments in the story of the reunification of Jerusalem, to be treasured for all times, for those who experienced it and still recall, and for the generations to come.

Obverse:  The Lion’s Gate in the wall of the Old City of Jerusalem, the number “30”, “JERUSALEM REUNITED” in Hebrew and English and the verse “STRONGER THAN LIONS” (Samuel II) in Hebrew and English.

Reverse:  A paratrooper standing emotionally in front of the Western Wall, holding his helmet, with the Israeli flag waving in the background, the words “SWIFTER THAN EAGLES” (Samuel II) in Hebrew and English. The image of the paratrooper is based on the famous photograph taken by David Rubinger, winner of the Israel Prize.

Edge: Israel State Emblem with the words "STATE OF ISRAEL" in Hebrew and English, metal and serial number.

Designer: Obverse Design: Ruben Nutels. Reverse Design: Dudu Cohen, based on the photograph taken by David Rubinger.

Engraving: Tidhar Dagan

Mint: Gold, Silver and Cooper-Nickel – the Government Mint, Jerusalem. Bronze – Kretschmer and Sons, Jerusalem.