-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 56652
Checkout
The Israel 10 New Shekel 1995 “Solomon’s Judgement” PF69 Ultra Cameo NGC silver proof coin is a beautifully executed numismatic piece commemorating one of the most iconic episodes in biblical history—the wise and decisive judgment rendered by King Solomon. Issued by the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation (IGCMC) under the auspices of the Bank of Israel, this coin honors ancient Judaic wisdom and judicial leadership, encapsulating the tale of moral clarity and justice in sterling silver. Struck in .925 fine silver and awarded a PF69 Ultra Cameo grade by NGC, this coin exemplifies high craftsmanship and meaningful historical symbolism.
The reverse design of the coin illustrates the moment from the Book of Kings where King Solomon resolves a bitter dispute between two women, each claiming to be the mother of the same child. In a moment of shrewd insight, Solomon proposes dividing the baby in two to reveal the true maternal instincts of each claimant. The design captures the dramatic climax: Solomon seated on his throne, issuing the command, with the women at his feet—one pleading and the other silent. The visual narrative is concise yet emotionally charged, reflecting both the tension of the moment and the sovereign’s legendary wisdom. The Hebrew inscription “משפט שלמה” (Judgment of Solomon) appears prominently above the scene, while the English translation, “Solomon’s Judgement,” curves gracefully below.
King Solomon, the son of King David and Bathsheba, is remembered as a paragon of wisdom in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions. His reign, marked by peace, prosperity, and architectural achievement, especially the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem, remains one of the most storied periods in ancient Israelite history. The tale of his judgment has become a universal metaphor for insightful leadership and the pursuit of justice. By commemorating this event, the coin not only celebrates ancient wisdom but also upholds the enduring values of discernment, fairness, and moral courage.
The obverse of the coin features the standard design for Israeli commemorative silver issues from the period. At the top is the official emblem of the State of Israel: the seven-branched menorah flanked by olive branches, symbolizing wisdom, peace, and national unity. Below the emblem, the name of the country is inscribed in Hebrew, Arabic, and English. The denomination “10 New Shekels” appears in both Hebrew and English, followed by the date of issue, “1995,” and the Hebrew year “5755.” This dignified obverse reinforces the authority and national significance of the commemorative subject matter.
Struck in proof quality, the coin was crafted using polished planchets and specialized dies to ensure the finest detail and a brilliant finish. The Ultra Cameo designation indicates that the coin features deeply frosted design elements contrasting sharply against the mirror-like fields. On this coin, the figures of Solomon and the women appear raised and matte, giving them an almost sculptural appearance. Their detail—especially in the expressions, postures, and throne—is crisp and refined, while the background remains a gleaming, uninterrupted surface, providing visual drama and enhancing the depth of the scene.
The PF69 grade from NGC is an almost-perfect rating, indicating a coin that is virtually flawless under magnification. It allows for only the most minor imperfections, typically not visible to the naked eye. For collectors, this grade represents an exceptional piece that approaches numismatic perfection, especially in the Ultra Cameo format. The surfaces of the coin are clean, clear, and deeply reflective, with uniform frosting on the relief and no signs of toning, haze, or post-mint damage. The coin is securely encapsulated in a tamper-evident holder, preserving both its beauty and authentication.
The mintage of the 1995 “Solomon’s Judgement” silver proof coin was limited, as is customary for IGCMC commemorative issues. Typically, these coins were minted in quantities ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 pieces, depending on demand and the thematic appeal. Each coin was issued with a certificate of authenticity and presented in a fitted case, making it suitable for display and long-term archival preservation. Given the small mintage and the popularity of biblical themes in numismatics, well-preserved examples in PF69 Ultra Cameo condition remain in strong collector demand.
This coin belongs to a broader series that celebrates biblical figures and episodes that have shaped both Jewish heritage and broader Western moral and legal traditions. Within this series, the “Solomon’s Judgement” coin stands out for its subject matter—an instance not of divine intervention or military conquest, but of human wisdom applied to a complex moral dilemma. Its relevance endures across cultures and generations, making the coin appealing not only to numismatists but also to theologians, educators, and those who cherish the narratives of the Old Testament.
The design’s strength lies in its narrative clarity and artistic restraint. The throne, Solomon’s poised authority, and the women’s emotional postures are all captured with subtlety and precision. The scene is neither overly crowded nor abstracted, ensuring its accessibility to viewers without compromising depth. The decision to depict the moment of judgment rather than its resolution invites contemplation and dialogue—qualities that resonate with the coin’s central theme of wisdom and discernment.
As a collectible, the Israel 10 New Shekel 1995 “Solomon’s Judgement” PF69 Ultra Cameo NGC coin occupies a distinguished niche. It is a piece that reflects both spiritual heritage and artistic integrity. Its perfect proof finish and thoughtful composition elevate it from mere currency to a miniature work of narrative art. Collectors of Judaica, biblical themes, or modern commemorative silver will find this coin an essential addition—combining historical depth, moral resonance, and striking visual execution.
The Israel 10 New Shekel 1995 “Solomon’s Judgement” PF69 Ultra Cameo NGC silver proof coin represents a powerful intersection of faith, law, and history. It distills a timeless story of wisdom into sterling silver, produced with meticulous craftsmanship and housed in near-perfect condition. With its low mintage, high grade, and evocative imagery, the coin stands not only as a collectible but as a testament to the enduring values of justice, clarity, and leadership. It is a profound addition to any collection that values the richness of Israel’s cultural and spiritual legacy.