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The Israel 5 Lirot 1972 KM#69.1 Proof coin, commemorating the Russian Hanukka Lamp, is part of an esteemed series issued by the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation to honor the artistry and spiritual significance of Jewish ceremonial objects. This particular piece, struck in silver and presented in high-quality proof format, pays tribute to a Hanukka lamp from the Russian Jewish community, symbolizing both the resilience of Jewish tradition and the beauty of diaspora heritage. Issued during a period when Israel was increasingly using its coinage to highlight Jewish cultural identity, this coin offers collectors a striking example of historical reverence expressed through numismatic art.
Part of the renowned Hanukka Lamp series initiated in 1971, the 1972 Russian Hanukka Lamp issue is the second release in what would become a long-running and beloved program. Each year’s release features a different Hanukka menorah design drawn from Jewish communities around the world. The concept behind the series was to preserve the diverse artistic interpretations of the Hanukkiah, the nine-branched candelabrum used during the Festival of Lights. The 1972 edition specifically focuses on a Russian-style lamp, often characterized by ornate, Baroque-inspired metalwork typical of Eastern European Jewish ceremonial art during the 18th and 19th centuries.
The obverse of the coin is dominated by the intricate depiction of the Russian Hanukka Lamp, rendered in exquisite detail. The lamp, which likely originates from a synagogue or wealthy private collection in Russia, features curving arms, floral decorations, and a prominent shamash—the helper candle used to light the others. The style reflects the richness of Russian Judaica, where metalworkers often poured spiritual and artistic devotion into ceremonial objects. To the right of the lamp appears the word "Hanukka" in Hebrew script, and to the left, its English transliteration. At the bottom is the official emblem of the State of Israel: a menorah flanked by olive branches, reinforcing the connection between Jewish identity and the modern Israeli state.
The reverse of the coin bears the standard layout used in this series, with the word "Israel" displayed in Hebrew, English, and Arabic, emphasizing the trilingual nature of the nation’s identity. The denomination “5 Lirot” is also shown in Hebrew and English, and the year of minting—1972—is paired with its Hebrew calendar equivalent, 5733. The text is cleanly and clearly engraved, contributing to the coin’s elegance without distracting from the artistic centerpiece on the obverse. The design balance between modern typographic clarity and traditional religious motifs exemplifies the thoughtful design approach used by the Israel Government Mint throughout this series.
This coin was struck at the Israel Government Mint in Proof condition, a format specifically intended for collectors. Proof coins are struck with specially prepared dies and polished planchets, resulting in sharp design relief and mirror-like fields. The high level of detail visible in the Russian Hanukka Lamp image is enhanced by the frosted devices and reflective backgrounds, delivering exceptional visual contrast. The Proof strike allows for the fine lines, curls, and ornamental textures of the lamp to be appreciated in full, which is critical given the artistic nature of the object being portrayed.
The 1972 Russian Hanukka Lamp coin is composed of .900 fine silver, or 90% silver and 10% copper. It weighs 18 grams and measures 34 millimeters in diameter. This silver content equates to 0.519 troy ounces of pure silver, making the coin valuable not just for its artistic and historical qualities, but also for its precious metal content. Its size and weight are consistent with other commemorative coins issued in the early years of Israel’s numismatic programs, and its silver purity aligns with international standards of the time, giving it appeal to both numismatists and silver bullion collectors.
The mintage of the 1972 5 Lirot Russian Hanukka Lamp coin in Proof condition was limited to approximately 38,652 pieces. This moderate mintage ensures that the coin remains accessible to collectors while still offering a degree of scarcity. As interest in Judaica-themed coinage and international commemorative silver continues to grow, the demand for coins in the Hanukka Lamp series, particularly earlier issues like the 1972 release, has remained strong. Collectors interested in assembling complete sets of the series or acquiring early examples of Israel’s culturally themed numismatic art are especially drawn to this issue.
Coins that remain in Proof condition, particularly those housed in their original mint-issued capsules or presentation boxes, often exhibit excellent preservation. These examples retain their mirror-like surfaces and frosted reliefs with minimal blemishing. When submitted for third-party grading, such coins typically receive PF67 to PF69 designations, and occasionally PF70 for pristine specimens. Given the intricate nature of the lamp’s design, any loss of detail or post-mint handling can impact the coin’s visual appeal, making careful preservation a key factor in maintaining or increasing its value over time.
The thematic resonance of the coin is deeply significant. The Hanukka Lamp is more than just a ritual object—it symbolizes Jewish perseverance, renewal, and divine presence. The choice to feature a Russian-style menorah connects the modern State of Israel with the broader narrative of Jewish history and diaspora, acknowledging communities that preserved religious and cultural identity under often harsh conditions. The Russian Jewish community, in particular, faced centuries of discrimination and exile, yet maintained vibrant traditions, including the production of beautiful ceremonial objects such as the one honored on this coin.
The Israel 5 Lirot 1972 KM#69.1 Russian Hanukka Lamp Proof silver coin occupies a meaningful place in both numismatic and cultural contexts. It represents a convergence of Jewish religious heritage, artistic craftsmanship, and modern statehood. As part of an internationally recognized commemorative series, the coin is highly collectible among specialists in Judaica, world commemorative coinage, and silver proofs. Its limited mintage, high-quality strike, and powerful cultural symbolism ensure its continuing appeal. Whether cherished for its design, its historical narrative, or its role in preserving the memory of diaspora communities, this coin remains a standout example of Israel’s commitment to commemorative excellence.