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The Israel 2 New Sheqalim 1992 KM#232 PF "Roe and Lily" silver coin represents a delicate blend of biblical imagery and modern numismatic excellence. Issued by the Bank of Israel and struck by the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation (IGCMC), this commemorative coin forms part of Israel's esteemed series celebrating peaceful and natural themes drawn from ancient scriptures. The Roe and Lily motif is inspired by the poetic verses of the Song of Songs, connecting the beauty of nature with timeless expressions of love and renewal. Produced in sterling silver and finished to an exceptional Proof (PF) standard, this coin exemplifies the artistic and technical mastery that characterizes Israel's modern commemorative issues.
Israel’s commemorative coin program has long been committed to preserving and celebrating the nation's cultural, religious, and natural heritage. By 1992, Israel had firmly established a tradition of releasing coins that not only marked historical milestones but also conveyed deeper spiritual and philosophical ideals. The Roe and Lily coin draws directly from the Song of Songs, a biblical book renowned for its lyrical imagery and portrayal of love, beauty, and the splendor of creation. The coin captures this vision through its depiction of a roe deer amidst lilies, symbolizing innocence, grace, and purity—qualities revered in Jewish tradition and embraced by the State of Israel as expressions of peace and national identity.
The obverse of the 1992 Israel 2 New Sheqalim silver coin features the State Emblem of Israel: the traditional menorah flanked by olive branches. Above the emblem is the inscription "Israel" presented in Hebrew, Arabic, and English, emphasizing the country’s multicultural character and commitment to inclusivity. Below the emblem are the denomination "2 New Sheqalim" and the year "1992," shown in both Hebrew and English. On a Proof coin, the obverse is particularly striking, with the frosted emblem and inscriptions sharply contrasting against the flawless, mirror-like fields. The meticulous finish and precision striking highlight every intricate detail, reflecting the high standards of the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation.
The reverse design is the heart of the coin’s symbolic and artistic appeal. It portrays a graceful roe deer standing serenely among stylized lilies, capturing the essence of the biblical phrase, "My beloved is like a roe or a young hart among the lilies" (Song of Songs 2:9). The elegance of the roe and the simplicity of the lilies together convey a sense of purity, devotion, and the beauty of creation. The inscriptions "Roe and Lily" appear in Hebrew and English, further anchoring the coin’s theme. In Proof condition, the high-relief frosted devices of the roe and lilies stand vividly against the deep mirrored background, creating a vivid, almost ethereal visual effect that enhances the spiritual resonance of the design.
The 1992 Roe and Lily coin was struck in .925 fine silver, known as sterling silver, a standard for Israel’s high-quality commemorative issues. The coin measures approximately 37 millimeters in diameter and weighs around 28.8 grams, offering a substantial yet elegant presence in hand. Proof coins like this one are struck multiple times with specially prepared dies on polished planchets, resulting in sharp details, frosted motifs, and highly reflective fields. The mintage of the Roe and Lily coin was intentionally limited, typically issued in small numbers to maintain its exclusivity and enhance its appeal among collectors specializing in Israeli commemoratives, Judaica, or biblical-themed numismatic pieces.
Condition is of utmost importance in determining the value and desirability of Proof coins. The 1992 Israel 2 New Sheqalim Roe and Lily silver coin, when preserved in true PF condition, displays pristine surfaces with no signs of circulation, handling marks, or post-mint damage. The fields are deeply mirrored and flawless, free from haze, spotting, or hairlines that can sometimes mar lesser-preserved examples. The frosted devices—the roe’s lithe form and the delicate petals of the lilies—retain their full sharpness and contrast brilliantly with the surrounding polished areas. The edge remains crisp, and the original mint brilliance accentuates the coin’s beauty under proper lighting, making a PF Roe and Lily coin a visual masterpiece.
The symbolic meaning of the Roe and Lily coin extends beyond its aesthetic charm. In the Jewish tradition, the Song of Songs is seen as an allegory for the love between God and Israel, or between the Jewish people and their heritage. The imagery of the roe deer and lilies speaks to an idealized vision of love that is both pure and enduring. By choosing these symbols for a national coin, Israel reinforces its deep spiritual connections to its land and faith traditions. The serene depiction of nature embodies a vision of peace, tranquility, and renewal, ideals that remain central to Israel’s identity and aspirations, making the Roe and Lily coin both a work of art and a cultural statement.
From a numismatic perspective, the 1992 Roe and Lily coin is highly prized among collectors for several reasons. Its limited mintage, sterling silver composition, exquisite design, and exceptional Proof striking make it a standout within Israel’s modern commemorative series. It also appeals to a broad audience, including those interested in world silver issues, religious-themed coins, and peace symbolism. Collectors who specialize in Israeli Proof coins particularly value the Roe and Lily for its artistic merits and for the emotional and spiritual themes it represents. The coin’s manageable size and accessible price point further enhance its desirability, making it suitable for both novice and experienced collectors alike.
The historical context of the early 1990s adds another layer of significance to the coin. Israel, entering a period marked by peace initiatives and shifting regional dynamics, embraced symbols of hope and reconciliation. The Roe and Lily coin’s emphasis on natural beauty, peace, and purity resonated strongly during this era, reflecting a collective yearning for stability and flourishing after decades of conflict. As such, the coin stands not only as a tribute to ancient biblical poetry but also as a testament to Israel’s modern aspirations and the timeless values that continue to inspire its people and culture.
The Israel 2 New Sheqalim 1992 KM#232 PF Roe and Lily silver coin remains one of the most graceful and symbolically rich issues in Israel’s modern commemorative series. Its flawless Proof finish, striking imagery, and deep spiritual meaning ensure its lasting appeal among collectors and admirers of numismatic art. Whether treasured for its craftsmanship, its religious significance, or its embodiment of peace and beauty, the 1992 Roe and Lily silver coin stands as a shining example of how coins can serve as bridges between the past and present, celebrating the enduring connections between people, land, and faith.