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The Israel 2 New Sheqalim 1990 KM#213 Proof “Archaeology” silver coin is part of Israel’s esteemed series of numismatic commemoratives celebrating the nation’s cultural, historical, and scientific heritage. Struck by the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation and issued by the Bank of Israel, this proof silver coin honors the rich and extensive archaeological legacy of the Land of Israel—an area whose buried history spans millennia and civilizations. Issued in 1990, this coin serves as a tribute to the discoveries that have illuminated the region’s ancient past, contributing to both national identity and global scholarship.
The coin was minted in .925 fine silver, commonly referred to as sterling silver, with a total weight of 28.8 grams and a diameter of 38.7 millimeters. It was struck in proof quality, a finish distinguished by mirror-like fields and frosted, high-relief devices that lend visual depth and clarity to the design. Each coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared dies and planchets to ensure razor-sharp detail and brilliance. This high standard of craftsmanship is a hallmark of Israeli proof coinage, especially for commemorative themes that reflect the nation’s unique historical and cultural legacy.
The obverse of the 1990 2 New Sheqalim Archaeology coin features a stylized depiction of a Tel—a mound formed over centuries of settlement, excavation, and rebuilding. Atop the Tel stands an olive tree, symbolizing endurance and peace, while below is a schematic representation of archaeological layers, including pottery shards and building remains. This clever and symbolic design captures the stratification of history and the methodical nature of archaeological work. The Hebrew and English inscriptions read “Archaeology in the Land of Israel,” framing the image in both national and universal contexts. The coin’s denomination, “2 New Sheqalim,” appears in Hebrew, Arabic, and English, alongside the emblem of the State of Israel and the dual-date “1990/5750.”
The reverse features a striking design element drawn directly from antiquity. At its center is an ancient Hebrew seal impression, or “bulla,” from the period of the First Temple, typically dating to the 8th to 6th century BCE. Such bullae were used to authenticate documents and mark property, reflecting administrative sophistication in ancient Judah. The ancient script on the seal adds both historic authenticity and aesthetic intrigue. The word “Israel” appears in Hebrew, Arabic, and English along the upper edge, reinforcing the coin’s national origin and multilingual inclusivity.
This coin was minted by the Israel Mint, under the auspices of the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation, which was responsible for overseeing the design and production of coins intended to celebrate and commemorate the nation’s achievements and identity. The mint is known for working closely with noted Israeli artists, historians, and archaeologists to ensure accurate and meaningful representations. As a result, the Archaeology coin benefits from expert design informed by scholarly insight, which gives the piece both artistic and educational value.
The mintage of the 1990 Israel 2 New Sheqalim Archaeology coin was relatively limited, which adds to its desirability among collectors. Fewer than 5,000 proof coins were issued, making it a moderately scarce issue within the modern Israeli commemorative series. Its thematic focus on archaeology also appeals to a broader segment of collectors beyond traditional numismatists, including academics, historians, and those with an interest in biblical and Middle Eastern antiquities. This coin successfully combines artistry with a celebration of Israel’s deep-rooted past, particularly resonating with those who appreciate coins as storytelling artifacts.
The historical significance of this commemorative coin lies in its representation of one of Israel’s most prominent contributions to global heritage: archaeological exploration and discovery. Since the founding of the modern state, Israeli archaeologists have played a central role in uncovering and preserving the remnants of countless ancient civilizations—from Canaanite cities and Philistine artifacts to Roman mosaics and Jewish temples. The coin not only honors the profession but also highlights the importance of historical preservation as a means of strengthening modern identity and cultural continuity.
In terms of condition, most surviving examples of this proof coin remain in excellent form, particularly those that have been stored in their original mint-issued capsules and presentation boxes. The highly reflective surfaces and frosted elements remain intact in PF69 and PF70 examples, while lower-graded specimens may exhibit minor handling marks or faint haze. The coin’s robust silver content and professional packaging have helped many examples remain well-preserved, with the proof strike ensuring the design remains crisp and detailed even under magnification.
Collectors often prize this coin for its intelligent and symbolic design, high relief proof strike, and the integration of ancient imagery with modern minting technology. Its place within the broader context of Israel’s commemorative coin program enhances its appeal, particularly among those assembling complete thematic sets. As a stand-alone piece, the Archaeology coin serves as a rich narrative artifact—a microcosm of Israel’s connection to its ancient past and the dedication to preserving that past for future generations.
The Israel 2 New Sheqalim 1990 KM#213 Archaeology proof silver coin is a testament to the power of numismatics to bridge art, history, and national identity. Through thoughtful design and impeccable craftsmanship, it commemorates the vital work of archaeology in revealing the foundational layers of human civilization in the Land of Israel. As a tribute to both scientific inquiry and cultural heritage, this coin stands as a meaningful and enduring addition to any serious numismatic or Judaica collection.