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The Israel 10 Lirot 1977 KM#91.1 coin, issued in Uncirculated condition, is part of a richly symbolic series that celebrates Jewish heritage through the lens of Hanukkah and its ritual artifacts. This particular coin commemorates the Jerusalem Hanukka Lamp, a traditional menorah associated with the Festival of Lights. Struck in 1977 by the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation, this silver coin reflects Israel’s dedication to honoring ancient traditions through modern numismatic artistry. The Jerusalem Hanukka Lamp coin belongs to a broader series that celebrates different historic and artistic menorahs from various Jewish communities around the world, emphasizing the diversity and unity of Jewish cultural expression.
The obverse of the coin showcases a stylized image of the Jerusalem Hanukka Lamp, which is known for its elegant, symmetrical design and its association with the city of Jerusalem, the spiritual and historical heart of Judaism. The lamp depicted on the coin is a replica of a traditional eight-branched menorah used during the Hanukkah holiday, with a central ninth branch called the "shamash" used to light the others. This artistic rendering reflects a deep appreciation for ceremonial craftsmanship and religious continuity. To the left of the lamp is the denomination “10 Lirot” and to the right appears the emblem of the State of Israel, a menorah flanked by olive branches. Hebrew inscriptions denote the word “Hanukka” and the city “Jerusalem,” anchoring the design in both religious and national significance.
The reverse side of the coin carries the word “Israel” in three languages—Hebrew, Arabic, and English—highlighting the multicultural and multilingual identity of the modern Israeli state. Below this appears the year of issue, 1977, and the corresponding Hebrew year 5738. The design layout is restrained and minimalistic, directing full attention to the symbolism of the Hanukkah lamp on the obverse. This simplicity allows the thematic elements of heritage and unity to resonate clearly, unencumbered by extraneous visual detail. The choice to use modern Hebrew script and contemporary design elements helps link the ancient custom to present-day Israel.
This coin was struck by the Israel Government Mint in Jerusalem using high-quality minting techniques consistent with the Corporation’s standards during the 1970s. The 10 Lirot Jerusalem Hanukka Lamp coin was struck in both Proof and Uncirculated conditions, with the KM#91.1 designation applying specifically to the Uncirculated version. These Uncirculated specimens were struck with special care on polished dies and carefully handled to avoid post-strike blemishes. The coin was part of a targeted collector series and was not intended for general circulation, making all surviving examples essentially preserved as commemorative collectibles.
The 1977 Jerusalem Hanukka Lamp 10 Lirot coin is composed of .900 fine silver and weighs 26 grams, with a diameter of 37 millimeters. This silver purity standard, often referred to as "coin silver," was commonly used in commemorative issues from Israel during this period. The silver content equals approximately 0.7523 troy ounces, which enhances the intrinsic value of the coin in addition to its numismatic appeal. The edge of the coin is smooth, consistent with many of Israel’s commemorative silver issues. The silver surface gives the coin a bright, reflective appearance, especially in fresh Uncirculated condition, making it an aesthetically pleasing addition to any collection.
The mintage of the 1977 10 Lirot Hanukka Lamp coin in Uncirculated condition was relatively limited, with only 4,111 pieces produced. This small mintage adds significant value and rarity to the coin, especially for collectors trying to complete the full Hanukka Lamp series or broader commemorative sets. By comparison, the Proof version (KM#91) had a much higher mintage, making the Uncirculated KM#91.1 version considerably scarcer and thus more sought-after among specialized collectors. The low mintage was likely due to the coin’s targeted appeal to collectors and institutions interested in Jewish ceremonial art, rather than to general investors or silver stackers.
Most surviving examples of the 1977 Hanukka Lamp coin in Uncirculated condition exhibit sharp strikes, full design detail, and strong luster. The Uncirculated strike preserves the intricate details of the lamp's ornate design, from the delicate oil holders to the base supporting the structure. Coins that have been properly stored in original packaging or archival holders typically show minimal, if any, contact marks, retaining their crisp finish and brilliant surfaces. Due to their limited distribution and purpose-built packaging, many of these coins remain in excellent condition decades after issue, often grading MS65 or higher when submitted to third-party certification services.
The symbolism of the Jerusalem Hanukka Lamp is central to the coin's meaning and collector appeal. Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days. The lamp depicted on the coin references both the miracle and the historical continuity of Jewish faith. By choosing to represent a Hanukkah lamp from Jerusalem, the coin links the holiday directly to its geographic and spiritual roots. This makes the coin not only a tribute to ritual practice but also a powerful expression of national and religious identity.
This coin is a favorite among collectors of Judaica, Israeli numismatics, and world silver commemorative coinage. It offers a compelling blend of aesthetic, historical, and spiritual value. Those who collect religious-themed coinage or coins illustrating ceremonial objects find this issue particularly meaningful. Furthermore, its limited mintage and high-quality strike make it a prized acquisition for collectors focused on low-mintage silver coins from the 20th century. The coin is also sometimes given as a Hanukkah gift or used in Jewish community settings to celebrate the holiday in a tangible, collectible form.
In summary, the Israel 10 Lirot 1977 KM#91.1 Jerusalem Hanukka Lamp silver coin stands as a beautiful and meaningful testament to Jewish heritage and national pride. With its limited mintage, silver composition, and symbolic design, it encapsulates a unique moment in modern Israeli numismatic history. Its appeal extends across collectors of world coins, religious artifacts, and Jewish ceremonial art, ensuring its ongoing desirability for years to come. For those building a comprehensive collection of Israeli commemoratives or Judaica coins, this Uncirculated issue is both a rare and essential piece.