-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 56629
Checkout
The Israel 5 New Shekel 1988 “Caesarea” PF69 Ultra Cameo certified by NGC is a superbly crafted proof coin that embodies the profound historical and archaeological legacy of ancient Caesarea, one of Israel’s most significant classical cities. Issued by the Bank of Israel and struck at the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation (IGCMC), this coin belongs to a commemorative series celebrating the rich tapestry of Israeli cultural and historical landmarks. With its elegant design, deep mirror fields, and exceptional frost on raised elements, this specimen, graded PF69 Ultra Cameo, is a near-flawless example that offers immense visual and historical appeal.
The coin was released in 1988, a year that marked renewed global interest in the archaeology and history of the Eastern Mediterranean. Caesarea, originally known as Caesarea Maritima, was founded by Herod the Great between 22 and 10 BCE in honor of Augustus Caesar. The ancient city functioned as a major Roman port and administrative capital of Judea, eventually evolving into an important Byzantine, Crusader, and Ottoman site. Its layered past is embedded in Israel's national narrative, and this commemorative coin honors its enduring significance through classical artistic interpretation and meticulous minting.
The obverse of the coin presents the denomination “5 New Shekel” inscribed in both Hebrew and English, accompanied by the mint year “1988” and the Hebrew calendar year “5748.” The text is arranged in a modern, clean font that complements the ancient motif of the reverse, providing balance between the contemporary State of Israel and its ancient foundations. The emblem of the State of Israel—a menorah flanked by olive branches—appears prominently, symbolizing peace, enlightenment, and national identity. The word “Israel” is inscribed in three languages: Hebrew, English, and Arabic, underscoring the country's multicultural and linguistic heritage.
The reverse design is the true focal point of the coin, showcasing a reconstructed view of ancient Caesarea’s Roman amphitheater, drawn from archaeological reconstructions and historical sources. The stylized representation includes arched colonnades and stone steps, conveying the architectural grandeur and civic pride of the ancient city. The amphitheater scene is framed by a delicate inscription of “Caesarea” in Hebrew and English. The fine frosted finish of the amphitheater elements contrasts strikingly with the mirrored background, a hallmark of the Ultra Cameo designation. This effect heightens the three-dimensional quality of the structure and captures the grandeur of Caesarea as it once stood along the Mediterranean coast.
The coin was minted in proof quality at the IGCMC, an institution renowned for producing Israel’s official commemorative and numismatic coinage. Using specialized dies and carefully selected planchets, the mint ensured a sharp strike and exquisite finish. The proof version was not released for general circulation and was intended exclusively for collectors and institutions. The Ultra Cameo designation reflects the highest standard of proof striking, achieved through multiple strikes of the die to produce deep, mirror-like fields and crisply frosted devices. These features give the coin its brilliant visual contrast and exquisite detail.
The mintage of the 1988 Caesarea 5 New Shekel proof coin was relatively limited, enhancing its desirability among collectors. Although exact figures vary by issue, many Israeli proof coins from this period were produced in numbers ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 pieces. This limited availability, combined with the historical theme and high-quality strike, ensures that each surviving example carries both collector value and cultural significance. Coins graded PF69 Ultra Cameo by NGC are particularly sought after, as they represent coins with no more than one or two minuscule imperfections and nearly perfect contrast, just one step below the coveted PF70 grade.
As a PF69 Ultra Cameo, this coin displays nearly flawless fields and fully frosted design elements. The amphitheater’s lines are clean, crisp, and unbroken, while the mirrored surfaces exhibit excellent clarity and reflectivity. The coin’s surfaces are free from haze, carbon spotting, or major distractions, allowing the viewer to appreciate the craftsmanship and historical subject in full clarity. The preservation of this coin in a sealed, tamper-evident NGC holder not only guarantees its grade and authenticity but also safeguards its condition for future generations of collectors and historians alike.
Coins of this caliber often appeal to a range of collectors, including those focused on biblical history, classical archaeology, Jewish heritage, and modern proof coinage. The theme of Caesarea is particularly powerful, as it bridges the Greco-Roman era with Jewish and Christian traditions. Archaeological excavations at Caesarea have uncovered ancient synagogues, aqueducts, mosaics, and early Christian inscriptions, placing the site at the crossroads of multiple civilizations. This coin distills that rich history into a finely detailed numismatic form, suitable for display or inclusion in a thematic collection.
Another element contributing to this coin's desirability is its symbolism. By featuring Caesarea, the State of Israel affirms its role as the modern steward of ancient heritage, protecting and celebrating the ruins that testify to the nation's deep historical roots. The amphitheater, once a venue for civic gatherings and performances, now stands as a symbol of continuity, resilience, and cultural memory. The coin captures this essence in its compact, artistic form, lending it not only aesthetic but also philosophical weight.
The Israel 5 New Shekel 1988 “Caesarea” PF69 Ultra Cameo NGC is more than a numismatic object—it is a cultural artifact that fuses modern minting technology with millennia of history. Its limited mintage, high grade, and striking Ultra Cameo finish make it an exceptional example of Israeli commemorative coinage. For collectors who value artistry, historical themes, and preservation, this coin offers a rare and meaningful addition to any collection, reflecting both the grandeur of ancient Caesarea and the enduring heritage of the modern Israeli state.