-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 37218
Checkout
The Israel 1 New Sheqel 1991 KM#220 UNC "Dove and Cedar Tree" silver coin is a beautiful representation of Israel’s enduring commitment to peace, strength, and historical continuity. Issued by the Bank of Israel, this commemorative coin reflects themes deeply woven into the fabric of Israeli national identity. Combining powerful biblical symbolism with exquisite modern artistry, the 1991 Dove and Cedar Tree coin stands as a tribute to values that transcend time. Struck in silver and carefully preserved in Uncirculated (UNC) condition, the coin remains a stunning example of the quality and thematic richness that characterize Israel’s commemorative numismatic program during the late 20th century.
The issuance of commemorative coins has long been a hallmark of Israel’s national celebrations, beginning shortly after the country's establishment in 1948. By the early 1990s, Israel had firmly established a tradition of issuing coins that commemorate religious ideals, historical events, and cultural values. The 1991 Dove and Cedar Tree coin falls into the category of values-centered issues, using universally recognizable imagery to convey a message of peace and resilience. This release coincided with a time when Israel, like many nations, was grappling with regional tensions and ongoing efforts to secure lasting peace. The choice of the dove and the cedar tree resonated not only within Jewish tradition but also with broader international symbols of hope and perseverance.
The obverse of the 1991 Israel 1 New Sheqel silver coin features the official Emblem of the State of Israel, a menorah flanked by two olive branches, symbolizing the pursuit of peace and enlightenment. Surrounding the emblem are inscriptions of "Israel" in Hebrew, Arabic, and English, reflecting the country's multicultural and multilingual heritage. The denomination “1 New Sheqel” and the mint year 1991 are placed below the emblem in both Hebrew and English. On an Uncirculated example, the obverse remains crisp and bright, with sharp definition in the intricate menorah and olive branch designs, and clean, bold inscriptions free from any signs of handling, wear, or toning, preserving the clarity and intended beauty of the design.
The reverse design is the heart of the coin’s symbolic narrative, portraying a dove in flight above a stylized cedar tree. The dove, long associated with peace, and the cedar tree, symbolizing strength, longevity, and steadfastness, together evoke a vision of a resilient and hopeful Israel. The cedar is particularly significant in biblical and Middle Eastern traditions, often representing righteousness and prosperity. The legend “Peace” appears in Hebrew, Arabic, and English, emphasizing the universal aspiration for harmony. On a UNC coin, the soft, frosted textures of the dove and tree contrast vividly against the brilliant, mirror-like fields, enhancing the three-dimensional quality of the design and lending the coin exceptional visual depth and appeal.
The 1991 Dove and Cedar Tree 1 New Sheqel coin was struck in .850 fine silver, a standard alloy for Israeli commemorative silver issues of the era. The coin measures approximately 30 millimeters in diameter and weighs 14.4 grams, maintaining consistency with other commemorative issues intended for collectors and national celebrations. It was produced by the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation (IGCMC), known for its meticulous attention to quality and artistic excellence. The mintage was intentionally limited, with only a modest number of Uncirculated pieces produced alongside a smaller allocation of proofs, ensuring the coin's desirability and future scarcity within the global numismatic market.
Condition plays an essential role in the value and collectibility of the 1991 Dove and Cedar Tree silver coin. In Uncirculated condition, the coin retains its full original mint brilliance, with flawless surfaces free of blemishes, scratches, or contact marks. The high points of the design, such as the dove’s wings and the fine detail of the cedar tree branches, remain pristine and sharply struck. The cartwheel luster, a hallmark of a well-preserved UNC silver coin, is fully intact, giving the piece a dynamic and radiant appearance when rotated under a light source. Such superb preservation ensures that all the design elements can be appreciated exactly as they were intended at the time of minting.
Thematically, the 1991 Dove and Cedar Tree coin taps into profound symbols shared across cultures and faiths. In Judaism, the dove famously appears in the story of Noah’s Ark as the bearer of the olive branch, signifying the end of the flood and the restoration of peace between humanity and the divine. The cedar tree, referenced in numerous biblical passages, represents strength, beauty, and spiritual elevation. By combining these two elements on a single coin, Israel conveyed a powerful message that peace must be nurtured with the same care and resilience that allows a great tree to grow. This combination of universal symbolism and specific national identity enhances the coin's appeal to collectors around the world.
From a numismatic perspective, the 1991 Dove and Cedar Tree silver coin holds significant value both as an individual piece and as part of broader collecting themes. Collectors interested in Judaica, peace-themed coinage, or modern world silver issues find the coin especially appealing. Its relatively low mintage, exceptional artistic execution, and pristine preservation in UNC condition position it as a premium piece within Israeli commemoratives. Furthermore, its elegant design and accessible size make it an ideal gateway for new collectors or an essential addition to more advanced collections focused on meaningful and beautifully rendered themes.
The coin also serves as a reminder of Israel’s cultural diplomacy, using numismatic art to convey messages of hope and perseverance to both domestic and international audiences. In a world often marred by conflict and division, the simple yet profound imagery of a dove soaring over a rooted cedar tree continues to inspire collectors and admirers of fine coinage. Owning a 1991 Dove and Cedar Tree coin in Uncirculated condition is not merely acquiring a piece of silver; it is holding a symbol of aspirations for peace, endurance, and a flourishing future—ideals that remain as relevant today as they were at the time of the coin’s issuance.
The Israel 1 New Sheqel 1991 KM#220 UNC Dove and Cedar Tree silver coin stands as a testament to the timeless values of peace and strength embodied through superb craftsmanship and meaningful design. Its brilliant surfaces, sharp details, and profound symbolism ensure that it will remain a cherished piece in the world of modern numismatics. Whether collected for its historical significance, artistic beauty, or emotional resonance, the 1991 Dove and Cedar Tree silver coin continues to captivate those who appreciate the power of coins to tell stories that transcend borders and generations.