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The Israel 250 Pruta 1949H KM#15a is one of the most historically significant coins in modern Israeli numismatics. Struck in the first year of Israel’s existence as an independent state, the 250 Pruta silver coin embodies national rebirth, Judaic heritage, and early statehood ambition. This particular coin, struck at the Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato in Rome, Italy, carries the “H” mintmark to denote its origin. Composed of 80% silver and graded in Uncirculated (UNC) condition, the 250 Pruta is the highest denomination of Israel’s 1949 silver issues and a prized piece for collectors of early Israeli coinage and world silver alike.
The establishment of the State of Israel in May 1948 necessitated the immediate introduction of a sovereign currency. The Israeli government sought to break from the British Mandate system, where the Palestine pound had been in use, and introduce new coins reflecting Jewish symbols, culture, and language. The 250 Pruta, part of the first series of Israeli coins, was issued in 1949 alongside 50, 100, and 500 Pruta denominations, all designed by Israeli sculptor Rothschild and other early contributors to the state’s visual identity. These coins laid the foundation for Israel's monetary system until the transition to the Israeli lira later in the 1950s.
The obverse of the 250 Pruta features a detailed image of a grapevine with leaves and a prominent cluster of grapes hanging from a stylized vine. This design is steeped in symbolism, as grapes are among the Seven Species (Shiv'at HaMinim) listed in the Hebrew Bible, representing agricultural richness and divine blessing. Above the vine is the word “Israel” inscribed in both Hebrew (יִשְׂרָאֵל) and English. The combination of biblical symbolism and dual-language inscriptions served as a bridge between tradition and modernity for a nation newly defining its identity. The artistry is simple yet profound, creating a timeless visual impact.
The reverse of the coin is inscribed with the denomination “250 Pruta” in both Hebrew and English, with the Hebrew text curving across the top and English centered below. The date, given in Hebrew calendar notation as תש"ט (5709), which corresponds to the Gregorian year 1949, is prominently placed. The letter “H,” the mintmark indicating the coin was struck in Rome, is found beneath the date or along the rim depending on the variety. The edge of the coin is reeded, and the reverse layout is clean and well-balanced, designed for both aesthetic appeal and legibility in everyday use.
Technically, the coin measures 32 mm in diameter and has a mass of 14.4 grams. Struck in 80% silver (.800 fineness), with the remaining alloy composed of copper, the 250 Pruta contains 0.371 ounces (11.55 grams) of actual silver weight. Its substantial size and silver content made it a significant coin both in terms of face value and intrinsic metal value at the time of issue. The decision to strike the early coinage in silver not only lent the currency credibility but also allowed for export and trade value, especially important for a fledgling economy with limited foreign reserves.
The 250 Pruta was issued only in 1949, making it a one-year type coin. Mintage figures for the 1949H issue are estimated at approximately 500,000 pieces, though exact numbers are debated due to the multiple subcontracted foreign mints used during this transitional period. The “H” mintmark variety from Rome is the more common of the two silver 250 Pruta variants, the other being KM#15 with no mintmark, believed to have been struck in Tel Aviv. However, even the H-mint version is not common in high grades due to limited distribution, handling, and time elapsed since issue.
In Uncirculated (UNC) condition, the 1949H 250 Pruta exhibits full original mint luster and sharply struck devices, with no signs of circulation wear. The fields remain clean and frosty, and the high points of the grape cluster and lettering retain strong definition. While minor contact marks or bag chatter may be present under magnification, coins in UNC grades display considerable visual appeal. As with most early Israeli silver, original toning may be present and can add to the coin’s eye appeal if it is even and attractive. UNC examples are increasingly sought after due to their scarcity and the difficulty in locating pristine specimens.
The value of the 250 Pruta 1949H in UNC condition can vary depending on eye appeal, strike quality, and surface preservation. Typically, these coins range in value from $150 to $300, with especially high-end examples commanding even higher prices at auction. As demand for early Israeli coinage grows among collectors of Judaica, silver coins, and world types, prices for UNC examples have steadily appreciated. Certified examples from NGC or PCGS graded MS63 or higher can command significant premiums and serve as centerpieces in national or thematic collections.
From a historical standpoint, the 1949 250 Pruta is a milestone in Israeli coinage. It is the highest denomination of the newly formed state’s first silver coin set and was part of the practical foundation of Israel's monetary sovereignty. Its design hearkens back to biblical heritage while firmly rooting the coin in the mid-20th-century geopolitical reality. Coins like this served not just as currency, but also as cultural declarations—statements of identity, autonomy, and continuity in the Jewish historical narrative. Its large silver flan and meaningful imagery ensure that it stands out both numismatically and symbolically.
In conclusion, the Israel 250 Pruta 1949H KM#15a in Uncirculated condition is an emblematic and coveted piece of early Israeli numismatics. Combining substantial silver content, beautiful and symbolic design, low one-year mintage, and a direct connection to Israel’s founding era, it remains a standout coin for collectors worldwide. Its preservation in UNC condition adds further value and prestige, ensuring its place not only as a collectible but as a piece of national and cultural history captured in silver. For both seasoned collectors and newcomers to Judaic numismatics, this coin offers a compelling blend of story, style, and scarcity.