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The Israel 5 New Shekel 1994 “Palm Tree & Leopard” PF69 Ultra Cameo NGC silver proof coin is a poetic and powerfully symbolic issue from the “Views of Israel” series, celebrating the harmony between the natural world and spiritual themes rooted in Jewish scripture. Struck in .925 fine silver by the Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation (IGCMC) under the auspices of the Bank of Israel, this coin features an allegorical design inspired by the prophecy of peace found in Isaiah 11:6. Awarded the near-perfect grade of PF69 Ultra Cameo by NGC, the coin exhibits exquisite craftsmanship, deeply mirrored fields, and frosted devices with strong contrast and minimal imperfections, making it both visually stunning and culturally rich.
The reverse of the coin showcases a striking and memorable image: a powerful leopard lying serenely beneath a tall palm tree. The tree is elegantly rendered with long, curved fronds that extend upward and outward, while the leopard rests peacefully at the base, legs outstretched and gaze calm. The composition evokes a moment of restfulness and coexistence between predator and nature, symbolizing the prophetic promise of harmony among all creatures. Above the image is the Hebrew inscription “תמר ונמר,” and below it appears the English translation “Palm Tree & Leopard.” The artwork is clean and balanced, allowing the symbolism to resonate through a minimalist but emotionally evocative design.
This powerful pairing draws directly from the biblical text of Isaiah, which foresees a time of peace where “the wolf shall dwell with the lamb…and the leopard shall lie down with the young goat.” Though the goat is not depicted here, the resting leopard itself is emblematic of this messianic vision—a world free of violence, where even natural enemies coexist in peace. The palm tree, often a symbol of righteousness and beauty in Jewish tradition, adds an additional layer of meaning. Psalms 92:12 states, “The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree,” further reinforcing the coin’s moral and spiritual message. Together, the palm tree and leopard form a numismatic tableau of hope and divine serenity.
The obverse follows the standard design used across Israeli commemoratives of the early 1990s. At the top is the national emblem of the State of Israel: the seven-branched menorah flanked by olive branches, symbolizing peace, enlightenment, and unity. Below that is the name “Israel” inscribed in Hebrew, Arabic, and English. Further below appears the denomination “5 New Shekels” in both Hebrew and English, as well as the year “1994” and the corresponding Hebrew year “5754.” The layout is simple and formal, balancing the thematic imagery of the reverse with the official character of national coinage.
The coin was struck in proof quality using specially polished dies and carefully prepared silver planchets, ensuring the highest level of detail and luster. The Ultra Cameo designation reflects an especially well-executed strike, where frosted reliefs contrast dramatically against deeply mirrored backgrounds. The resting leopard and palm fronds appear to float above the reflective field, casting a serene silhouette with fine-line detailing on the animal’s coat and the textured bark of the tree. Every curve and contour is rendered with precision, offering a rich visual experience in a compact 5 New Shekel format.
Graded PF69 Ultra Cameo by NGC, the coin is classified as near-flawless, with only the most microscopic imperfections, often invisible without magnification. The fields are free from distracting marks, haze, or spots, and the frosted details are crisp and uninterrupted. Coins at this grade level are prized by collectors for their beauty and scarcity in such high condition, especially when the coin is already a limited mintage proof issue. Encapsulated in NGC’s secure holder, this coin is protected from environmental exposure and benefits from a tamper-evident seal that ensures authenticity and preservation.
The mintage for the 1994 “Palm Tree & Leopard” proof coin was deliberately limited, consistent with the other coins in the “Views of Israel” series. While exact production numbers vary, most issues in this series were struck in quantities ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 pieces, aimed at collectors of Israeli coins, Judaica, and modern silver commemoratives. These coins were typically released in presentation boxes with certificates of authenticity, sold through the IGCMC to both domestic and international buyers. The relatively low supply and enduring symbolism of this piece have made it a favorite among collectors seeking meaning and artistry in equal measure.
The “Palm Tree & Leopard” coin belongs to a broader group of commemoratives that focus on themes of nature, scripture, and peace. Alongside other entries in the “Views of Israel” series—such as “Apple Tree & Young Hart,” “Cedar & Dove,” and “Roe & Lily”—this issue continues the tradition of blending visual artistry with deep-rooted religious and philosophical themes. It represents an idealized vision of Israel not as a battleground of conflict, but as a sanctuary of reconciliation and beauty, reflecting the prophetic dream of a world redeemed through peace.
Numismatically, this coin serves multiple audiences. It appeals to collectors of Israeli proof coinage, Judaica, and wildlife-themed coins, as well as to those who appreciate the integration of sacred texts into numismatic design. The fine detail, mirrored brilliance, and spiritual resonance of the imagery make it an exceptional conversation piece and a thoughtful addition to any curated collection. For collectors who enjoy thematic sets, this coin adds strength to a group focused on peace, prophecy, and ecological balance.
Visually, the coin manages to evoke calm and spiritual depth through its composition. The repose of the leopard under the tree is a gentle yet powerful metaphor for a transformed world, and the designer’s ability to render that sentiment in metal speaks to the high level of craftsmanship typical of IGCMC products during this period. The use of both Hebrew and English ensures the message is accessible to collectors and admirers across cultures and languages, further enhancing its appeal.
The Israel 5 New Shekel 1994 “Palm Tree & Leopard” PF69 Ultra Cameo NGC silver proof coin is a masterful blend of prophetic vision, cultural symbolism, and numismatic precision. With its limited mintage, near-perfect preservation, and artistic design rooted in scriptural tradition, it continues to be a meaningful and highly collectible piece. As both a work of spiritual expression and a product of fine minting, it offers collectors a silver coin that speaks not only of a nation’s values, but of a universal hope for peace and harmony among all living things.