Israel - Currency of conflict

[Figleaf]

A country's first coin is special. It often has an aura of accomplishment. It celebrates. Not so the first coin of the modern state of Israel. It is reminiscent of a siege piece or emergency money. Israel's birth only changed rebellion against the colonial power to war with its neighbouring state. This humble aluminium piece was struck in Jerusalem and in Holon, now part of Tel Aviv before the country had an official mint.

It reminds me of a joke of the period. A jew from Amsterdam emigrates to Israel and is promptly called up for military services. He is asked if he has a preference for any service. Not being a particularly heroic type, he wants to be in the navy. "Can you swim?", his interrogator asks. "Oy" is the answer, "you mean you don't have any ships either?"

Peter

[andyg]

Lots of varieties of this one, if you want to find out which type you have Peter, try here

[Figleaf]

Great link! I added it to the list of useful links. Thanks.

My coin is now identified as Holon, open link, straight leaves.

Peter