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The Israel 2 New Sheqalim 1991 KM#221 PF "Dove and Cedar Tree" silver coin is a remarkable piece that blends deep symbolism with superb craftsmanship. Issued by the Bank of Israel, this proof coin honors timeless values such as peace, strength, and resilience, using powerful imagery derived from ancient traditions and national aspirations. Struck in fine silver and finished with the mirror-like brilliance characteristic of proof coins, the 1991 Dove and Cedar Tree piece stands as a significant issue within Israel’s distinguished commemorative coin program. Its exceptional condition and poignant theme make it a standout item for collectors who appreciate both technical artistry and profound meaning in their numismatic holdings.
Israel has long utilized its commemorative coinage to reflect both its ancient heritage and modern identity. By the early 1990s, the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation (IGCMC) had established a tradition of issuing coins that celebrate cultural, religious, and historical milestones. The 1991 Dove and Cedar Tree silver coin fits perfectly within this tradition, symbolizing Israel’s desire for peace amidst regional challenges and its enduring strength rooted in deep historical foundations. The pairing of the dove, a universal symbol of peace, and the cedar tree, a biblical symbol of strength and longevity, offers a powerful statement about Israel’s hopes for its future and its steadfast resilience through time.
The obverse of the 1991 Israel 2 New Sheqalim silver coin features the official Emblem of the State of Israel: a menorah flanked by olive branches. Above the emblem, the word "Israel" is inscribed in Hebrew, Arabic, and English, reflecting the nation’s linguistic and cultural diversity. Below the emblem are the denomination "2 New Sheqalim" and the year of issue, 1991, presented in both Hebrew and English. In proof condition, the obverse is particularly striking, with the frosted details of the menorah and inscriptions standing out crisply against deeply mirrored fields, demonstrating the exceptional quality and precision of the proof striking process executed by the IGCMC.
The reverse of the coin, from which it draws its primary name and theme, showcases a delicate and poignant image of a dove soaring above a stylized cedar tree. The dove, universally recognized as a symbol of peace, is rendered in a graceful, flowing design, while the cedar tree represents enduring strength and vitality, referencing the famous cedars of Lebanon often mentioned in the Bible. The word "Peace" appears in Hebrew, Arabic, and English, reinforcing the coin’s message of universal harmony. In proof condition, the contrast between the frosted devices and the mirrored background creates an almost three-dimensional effect, enhancing the beauty and emotional resonance of the imagery.
The 1991 Dove and Cedar Tree 2 New Sheqalim coin was struck in .925 fine silver, commonly referred to as sterling silver, marking it as a premium issue within Israel’s commemorative coin program. The coin has a diameter of approximately 37 millimeters and a weight of about 28.8 grams, providing it with a substantial feel that further enhances its appeal to collectors. Proof versions of the coin, such as this one, were specially produced using polished planchets and specially prepared dies to ensure maximum detail, sharpness, and surface brilliance. The mintage was deliberately limited, often to just a few thousand pieces, ensuring the coin’s scarcity and desirability among collectors worldwide.
Condition plays an especially critical role for proof coins, and the 1991 Dove and Cedar Tree silver piece in PF (Proof) condition is no exception. A pristine example will exhibit flawless, deep mirror-like fields and sharp frosted devices with no signs of wear, handling, or post-mint blemishes. The coin’s edges should be crisp and clean, and the mirrored surfaces should display no spotting, clouding, or hairlines, which can sometimes mar proof finishes if not carefully preserved. In its intended PF condition, the Dove and Cedar Tree coin presents an outstanding visual experience, allowing every fine detail of the dove’s wings and the cedar tree’s stylized branches to be appreciated fully and in stunning clarity.
The symbolism captured on the 1991 Dove and Cedar Tree coin reaches far beyond its physical beauty. The dove is deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, famously appearing in the story of Noah’s Ark as the bearer of an olive branch, signaling the end of divine judgment and the beginning of renewal. The cedar tree, cited numerous times in the Hebrew Bible, particularly in Psalms and the Song of Songs, represents majesty, durability, and moral uprightness. By combining these two powerful images, the coin conveys a dual message: the hope for lasting peace and the strength required to endure and flourish. The multilingual inscription of "Peace" further highlights Israel’s vision of coexistence among diverse peoples and cultures.
From a numismatic perspective, the 1991 2 New Sheqalim Dove and Cedar Tree silver coin holds broad appeal. It fits seamlessly into collections focusing on modern world silver coins, Judaica, peace-themed coins, or proof-quality strikes. Its relatively low mintage, combined with its thematic significance and impeccable execution, ensures continued demand among collectors. Additionally, proof coins like this often serve as the crown jewels within broader sets of Israeli commemoratives, showcasing the peak of minting artistry and the depth of historical and cultural narratives captured within a small but powerful medium.
The historical context of the coin's issuance also adds to its significance. Released at a time of major global and regional changes, including the aftermath of the Gulf War and shifting dynamics in the Middle East, the 1991 Dove and Cedar Tree coin reflects Israel’s ongoing desire for stability and peace. It serves not only as a collector’s item but also as a statement of enduring national values and aspirations in a rapidly changing world. Holding a 1991 proof Dove and Cedar Tree coin is akin to holding a piece of history, a symbol of a nation's hopes etched permanently in precious metal.
The Israel 2 New Sheqalim 1991 KM#221 PF Dove and Cedar Tree silver coin exemplifies the finest qualities of modern commemorative coinage: outstanding artistry, profound symbolic meaning, and superb craftsmanship. Its mirror-like fields, sharp frosted designs, and powerful imagery ensure it remains one of the most beautiful and meaningful issues in Israel’s numismatic history. Whether collected for its artistic excellence, its rich symbolism, or its historical significance, the 1991 Dove and Cedar Tree coin remains a timeless tribute to the ideals of peace, strength, and resilience that continue to inspire collectors and admirers around the world.