1960 Israel Gold 20 Lirot Theodor Herzl Centenary BU

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In 1960, the Bank of Israel marked a major milestone by releasing its very first gold coin. This historic issue commemorates the centenary of Dr. Theodor Herzl, a pivotal figure whose legacy is permanently captured in precious metal. Struck in 0.917 fine gold with a weight of 0.2355 troy ounces, this piece represents a key moment in mid-century numismatic history, produced with a highly restricted mintage of only 10,460 pieces. The obverse of the coin features a detailed portrait of Dr. Herzl alongside the official state emblem of Israel. Accompanying his likeness is a powerful Hebrew inscription that translates to "It is no legend," a phrase deeply tied to his vision. On the reverse, the state emblem appears once more, surrounded by Hebrew text indicating the denomination of twenty Israeli Lirot. The inscriptions also display the dual dates of 1860 to 1960 and 5620 to 5720, bridging the Gregorian and Hebrew calendars to mark the one hundred years since Herzl's birth. This Brilliant Uncirculated coin stands as a fascinating artifact of statecraft and memory.