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The Israel 200 Lirot 1980 KM#104 Proof silver coin was issued to commemorate one of the most pivotal events in Middle Eastern history: the signing of the Israel-Egypt Peace Treaty. This historic agreement, signed on March 26, 1979, marked the first time an Arab nation formally recognized the State of Israel and committed to peace. The coin, struck in 1980 by the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation, honors the courage, diplomacy, and mutual recognition that led to the treaty between Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, brokered under the auspices of U.S. President Jimmy Carter. As a numismatic issue, the 200 Lirot coin encapsulates a monumental step toward peace in a region long plagued by conflict.
The obverse design of the coin is a bold and symbolic representation of peace. It features a pair of clasped hands—one emerging from an olive branch and the other from a stylized papyrus plant. The olive branch, universally recognized as a symbol of peace, represents Israel, while the papyrus signifies Egypt, an iconic plant associated with ancient Egyptian culture. The handshake between these two symbols is a powerful image of reconciliation and cooperation. The design, while minimalist, conveys a profound message of unity and the hope for a peaceful future. Beneath the imagery is the inscription “Peace Agreement Israel-Egypt” in Hebrew and English, directly linking the symbolism to the historical event it commemorates.
The reverse of the coin features the denomination “200 Lirot” prominently displayed in both Hebrew and English. Above it is the word “Israel” presented in three languages—Hebrew, Arabic, and English—reflecting the nation’s multicultural and multilingual identity. The date of issue, “1980,” appears along with its Hebrew calendar equivalent, “5740.” The official emblem of the State of Israel, a menorah flanked by olive branches, is placed near the top, further reinforcing the message of peace and statehood. The clean, modern design of the reverse complements the symbolic richness of the obverse, resulting in a well-balanced and aesthetically harmonious coin.
This commemorative was struck in Proof condition by the Israel Government Mint in Jerusalem, using the highest quality production standards. Proof coins are struck with specially polished dies and planchets to produce a mirror-like background with frosted design elements. The level of detail in the clasped hands, olive branch, and papyrus is finely rendered, and the frosted devices stand out crisply against the brilliant mirror fields. The high contrast and pristine finish of the coin demonstrate the Mint’s commitment to craftsmanship and ensure the coin’s desirability among collectors who value artistic and technical excellence in modern numismatics.
The 1980 200 Lirot Peace Treaty coin was struck in .850 fine silver, slightly below the more common .900 standard used in earlier Israeli commemorative issues. The coin weighs 37 grams and has a diameter of 40 millimeters, making it larger than most standard silver commemoratives and giving it a substantial presence in hand. With 0.999 troy ounces of pure silver content, the coin also appeals to investors seeking a silver piece with added historical and cultural value. The smooth edge and wide surface area allow the symbolic artwork to shine, and its weight and finish give it both numismatic and intrinsic appeal.
The total mintage of the 1980 200 Lirot Peace Treaty silver coin in Proof condition was limited to 29,283 pieces. This relatively modest mintage ensures that the coin remains collectible and not overly common, while still being accessible to a wide range of collectors. Many of the coins were distributed internationally through Israel Bonds and other promotional channels aimed at diaspora communities and supporters of peace initiatives. The coin’s issuance was widely celebrated and symbolized the optimism of the moment—a time when two longtime adversaries had taken the first real steps toward lasting peace in the Middle East.
Examples of the KM#104 coin in Proof condition are typically found in excellent preservation, especially when housed in their original mint-issued capsules or presentation boxes. The mirror fields and frosted devices retain their sharp contrasts when stored properly, and coins that have been graded by third-party services such as NGC or PCGS often receive PF67 to PF69 grades. Perfect PF70 examples, while uncommon, do exist and are particularly valued for their flawless surfaces. Because of the coin’s modern production and ceremonial purpose, most were never intended for circulation and have been well preserved over the decades.
The 1980 Peace Treaty coin has deep symbolic and historical resonance. The Israel-Egypt Peace Treaty was not only groundbreaking in its immediate impact but also paved the way for future diplomatic efforts in the region. The handshake depicted on the coin represents not just a treaty, but a promise of coexistence, recognition, and the potential for reconciliation. It reminds collectors and observers alike of the hard-fought journey toward peace and the courage required by leaders on both sides to break from conflict. The coin's design eloquently captures the gravity and hope of that moment in time.
This coin holds appeal not only for collectors of Israeli and Middle Eastern numismatics but also for anyone interested in historical events memorialized through coinage. It represents a fusion of politics, diplomacy, and artistry. For those collecting themed coins related to peace, global treaties, or diplomatic milestones, the 1980 200 Lirot Proof issue stands as a centerpiece. It also finds favor among collectors who focus on Jewish or Israeli history, 20th-century silver issues, and coins that tell stories far beyond their intrinsic metal value.
In sum, the Israel 200 Lirot 1980 KM#104 Proof silver coin serves as a powerful tribute to one of the most significant diplomatic achievements in modern Middle Eastern history. With its thoughtful symbolism, beautiful proof strike, and limited mintage, it continues to resonate with collectors as a beacon of hope and unity. It remains a testament to the possibilities of peace, artfully captured in silver, and serves as a tangible reminder of a moment when history bent toward reconciliation and the promise of a better future.