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The Israel 5 Lirot 1964 KM#43 silver coin is a beautifully designed commemorative issue minted in honor of the Israel Museum in Jerusalem. As one of the earliest large silver commemorative coins produced by the young state of Israel, this piece holds both cultural and numismatic significance. Struck in .900 fine silver and preserved in Uncirculated (UNC) condition, it exemplifies the craftsmanship and symbolic depth typical of Israel’s mid-20th-century coinage. Issued in 1964, the coin commemorates the establishment of the Israel Museum, a landmark institution that quickly became a center of national heritage, Jewish history, and international culture.
Founded in 1965, the Israel Museum was created to serve as the country's foremost cultural institution, housing the Dead Sea Scrolls, archaeological treasures, Judaica, and modern art. The issuance of this commemorative coin in the year prior to the museum’s public opening helped mark the culmination of years of planning and national investment in preserving Israel’s cultural legacy. The coin celebrates this achievement and serves as a tangible artifact reflecting the country's emphasis on education, preservation, and the arts. It also reflects Israel’s practice of using commemorative coins to mark milestones in its modern development, with themes often drawn from religion, culture, and the rebirth of the Jewish state.
The obverse of the 1964 5 Lirot coin features the emblem of the State of Israel—an elegant seven-branched Menorah flanked by olive branches. Above the emblem appears the word “ישראל” (Israel) in Hebrew, and below, the denomination “5 לירות” (5 Lirot). The Hebrew calendar year תשכ״ד (5724) appears near the rim, corresponding to 1964 in the Gregorian calendar. The design is clean, modern, and focused, presenting the symbols of the state with dignity and formality. In Uncirculated condition, the Menorah’s fine lines, the texture of the olive branches, and the inscriptions remain fully struck and razor-sharp. The background field is smooth and free of distracting marks, showcasing the brilliance of the silver surface when well-preserved.
The reverse design is of particular interest and artistic distinction. It features a stylized motif inspired by a ceramic oil lamp from the Byzantine period—one of the types of artifacts housed in the Israel Museum. The motif is set against a subtly textured background, with Hebrew and English inscriptions reading “בית המוזיאון בירושלים” and “Israel Museum Jerusalem.” The design draws a connection between the ancient cultural heritage preserved in the museum and the modern identity of the Israeli nation. This connection is visually powerful, especially in UNC condition, where the engraving’s depth and detail are fully preserved and the contrast between raised design elements and smooth fields is most evident.
Minted by the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation, this coin was struck in 0.900 fine silver, weighs 28.6 grams, and has a diameter of 38 millimeters—matching the standard international size for silver crown coins. Its smooth edge helps distinguish it from circulating coinage and reinforces its status as a special commemorative issue. These dimensions and metallic composition give the coin a satisfying heft and visual appeal. The weight and silver purity ensure that the coin also holds intrinsic bullion value, although its collectible and cultural significance far outweigh the melt value for most collectors.
The total mintage of the 1964 Israel Museum 5 Lirot coin was relatively low by international standards, with an estimated 30,000 to 40,000 pieces struck, most of which were issued for collectors. The limited release was intended to both commemorate the museum and encourage numismatic interest within and outside of Israel. Despite its age, many examples have survived in excellent condition, as the coins were usually sold in presentation cases or protective packaging. Still, true UNC specimens that exhibit original luster, sharp strike, and clean surfaces are increasingly sought after by collectors of Judaica, Israeli commemoratives, and silver world coinage.
Condition is key in maximizing both the numismatic and aesthetic value of this coin. In Uncirculated condition, the surfaces remain free from wear, the rims are crisp and unmarred, and the detail is fully struck across both the obverse and reverse. High-quality UNC examples may retain their original mint brilliance or exhibit natural, attractive toning that enhances their appeal. Coins that were well-stored in original government holders or capsules typically show no signs of handling and often achieve numerical grades in the MS63–MS66 range if professionally certified. Collectors value these coins for their preservation, especially when accompanied by original packaging or certificates of authenticity.
From a broader perspective, the 1964 5 Lirot “Israel Museum” coin encapsulates the cultural and intellectual aspirations of the Israeli state. As a commemorative, it honors the central role of art, history, and archaeology in national identity and collective memory. The museum’s location in Jerusalem—the spiritual and historical heart of Israel—further elevates the importance of the institution and, by extension, the coin issued in its honor. The use of an ancient lamp design as the central motif on the reverse speaks to continuity between past and present, echoing the museum’s mission to safeguard the material culture of centuries for future generations.
The numismatic legacy of this coin is bolstered by its place in a series of silver commemorative 5 Lirot issues from the 1960s, all of which celebrated meaningful cultural, religious, and historical milestones. Collectors often pursue these coins as part of a thematic set, and the 1964 issue ranks among the more aesthetically refined and symbolically potent entries. Its restrained yet meaningful artwork and silver content make it suitable for display, gifting, or educational purposes, as well as for long-term investment within the collectible coin market.
In conclusion, the Israel 5 Lirot 1964 KM#43 “Israel Museum” silver coin in Uncirculated condition is an elegant and historically significant commemorative. It honors one of Israel’s most important cultural institutions through refined design, high-quality silver striking, and powerful symbolism. With its relatively low mintage, artistic merit, and excellent preservation in UNC grade, this coin remains a standout piece within Israeli numismatics, appealing to both dedicated collectors and those with an interest in Jewish heritage, art, and history.