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The Israel 10 Lirot 1974 KM#78.2 PF Damascus Lamp silver coin is an exquisite example of modern Israeli numismatics, representing both cultural symbolism and superior minting craftsmanship. Struck in .900 fine silver, this proof coin commemorates an iconic artifact of Jewish heritage: the Damascus Lamp. Issued by the Bank of Israel and minted by the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation, the coin is part of Israel’s long-standing tradition of using coinage to celebrate its rich history, religious legacy, and artistic traditions. The 1974 Damascus Lamp coin stands as a striking fusion of historical reverence and contemporary design sensibility.
The Damascus Lamp featured on the coin refers to a beautifully crafted Hanukkah lamp (menorah) of Syrian origin, a cherished piece of Judaica that dates back to the Ottoman period and is now housed in the Israel Museum. This lamp, with its intricate filigree and symmetrical construction, represents the artistic accomplishments of Jewish communities in the Middle East. The decision to feature this lamp on a commemorative coin not only celebrates the Hanukkah miracle but also pays homage to the Jewish diaspora’s contributions to religious and decorative arts. It serves as a numismatic bridge between ancient customs and modern Israeli identity.
The obverse of the 1974 10 Lirot coin features the official emblem of the State of Israel—a menorah flanked by olive branches with the word "ישראל" (Israel) in Hebrew beneath. This national symbol is crisp and centered at the top of the field. Below the emblem is the denomination “10 Lirot” in Hebrew, flanked by smaller inscriptions in Arabic and English, reflecting Israel’s multilingual culture. At the bottom is the year “1974” alongside the Hebrew calendar year “תשל"ד” and the word “Proof,” indicating the coin's superior finish. The design is simple yet powerful, giving prominence to the national emblem while allowing the text to be legible and well-proportioned.
The reverse design, created by artist Galia Erez, depicts the Damascus Hanukkah lamp in elegant and detailed relief. The lamp is shown in full, with its ornate backplate and eight branches visible. A ninth branch, the shamash (servant light), is raised at the center, just as it is on traditional menorot. Each branch terminates in a small, delicately rendered oil cup. The craftsmanship of the real-life artifact is faithfully captured in the coin’s engraving, emphasizing the lamp’s symmetrical form and artistic refinement. The Hebrew inscription “מנורת דמשק” (Damascus Lamp) appears above the image, tying the visual to its historical name. The design exudes a quiet reverence, making it one of the most artistically accomplished coins of the period.
This coin was struck in 0.900 fine silver with a weight of 26 grams and a diameter of 37 millimeters. These specifications align it with many commemorative silver coins of the 20th century, offering collectors a substantial and satisfying piece in both hand and eye appeal. As a proof coin, it was minted using highly polished dies and planchets, ensuring a mirror-like finish in the fields and frosted devices that make the central design stand out dramatically. The coin's edge is milled, consistent with other Israeli proofs of the era, and provides a refined touch to the piece’s presentation.
The 1974 Damascus Lamp 10 Lirot coin was produced in two primary varieties: a regular uncirculated issue and a proof version. The KM#78.2 designation refers specifically to the proof variant. This version was struck in significantly lower numbers than the uncirculated edition, with the proof mintage estimated at approximately 3,268 pieces. As a limited-issue release, the proof coin was marketed directly to collectors, typically housed in a presentation case and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation. This low mintage ensures the coin's appeal and long-term desirability among both Judaica collectors and numismatists who specialize in modern Israeli issues.
Condition-wise, most surviving examples of the proof coin have been well-preserved thanks to their original packaging and intended collector audience. High-grade examples certified by grading services such as NGC or PCGS often receive grades of PF67 or PF68, with PF69 examples also occasionally found. The coin’s wide mirror-like fields are susceptible to light hairlines or contact marks, but with careful handling, many examples remain in virtually pristine condition even after decades. The frosted relief of the lamp contrasts beautifully with the brilliant fields, a hallmark of the proof finish that adds depth and drama to the design.
The Damascus Lamp coin holds significance beyond its aesthetics and silver content. It is a cultural tribute that resonates deeply with those who value Jewish tradition and art history. The original lamp it depicts is part of a long-standing tradition of Hanukkah celebration and community craftsmanship, where Judaica was produced not only for religious function but also as a form of artistic expression. By immortalizing this object in coinage, the State of Israel affirms the importance of Jewish history across the diaspora and the shared heritage that unites global Jewish communities.
This coin is also part of the broader "Hanukka Coin Series," a multi-year program by the Bank of Israel that features different historical Hanukkah lamps on each issue. This series has been praised for its artistic coherence and educational value, serving both as a collector's pursuit and a visual history of ceremonial art in the Jewish tradition. The 1974 Damascus Lamp is among the more popular issues in the series due to the elegance of the lamp design and the coin’s strong execution in silver proof format.
The 1974 Israel 10 Lirot Damascus Lamp silver proof coin (KM#78.2) is a masterpiece of modern Israeli commemorative coinage. With its exquisite design, historical depth, and low mintage, it offers collectors a rare blend of numismatic value and cultural richness. Whether sought for its artistic beauty, its spiritual symbolism, or its silver bullion content, the coin remains a lasting tribute to Jewish heritage and Israeli artistry. It stands as a meaningful acquisition for those who collect Judaica, Israeli commemoratives, or thematic proof coinage of the 20th century.