Soft pink, purple, and brown tones give this first shekel note a measured civic dignity, where philanthropy and Jerusalem’s stone memory meet in a compact circulation design.
Design & Symbolism
Obverse
The obverse is anchored by the portrait of Sir Moses Haim Montefiore, set beside Hebrew text and the Mishkenot Sha’ananim quarter in Jerusalem, with the Montefiore windmill and guesthouse forming the architectural background. The composition links portraiture with urban renewal, placing Montefiore’s image within the built landscape associated with his philanthropic work.
Reverse
The reverse centers on Jaffa Gate with the Tower of David in the Old City of Jerusalem, accompanied by Hebrew, English, and Arabic Bank of Israel text. The gateway motif shifts the note from individual portrait to civic threshold, connecting the first shekel currency to Jerusalem’s layered architectural and historical presence.
Collector’s Insight
For collectors, this 1978-dated note belongs to Israel’s first shekel series, introduced into circulation in 1980 after the lira was replaced and one zero was removed from the former denominations. Its pairing of Montefiore with Jaffa Gate creates a compelling intersection of monetary reform, Jerusalem imagery, and early shekel-era circulation history.
Shipping & Guarantee
Each banknote is carefully handled and securely packed to ensure safe delivery. Authenticity is guaranteed.
Serial number and prefix may vary from the reference image.
