Quick Coinage Facts
Years Minted: 1978-1980
Number of Types: 2
Composition: Copper 75%, Nickel 25%
Diameter: 30 mm
Weight: 11.2 grams
Total Mintage: 46,031,000 (circulation)
Edge: Smooth
Introduction
After the government decided to change the division of the Israel pound (or Lira) from 1,000 prutot to 100 agorot, the new coins were put into circulation starting January 1, 1960. The name "agora" was taken from 1 Sam. 2:36.
The coin was ceased to be recognized as legal tender March 31, 1984.
Design
The obverse design was based on an ancient Hebrew seal found at Megiddo and features a roaring lion, the emblem of the State of Israel as well as the word “Israel” in both Hebrew and Arabic.
The reverse design features the denomination "5 Pounds" in between two stars and the date in Hebrew.
| Obverse | Reverse |
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Types
Type 1 - Coins were made of a Copper - Nickel (1978-1979 issues)
Type 2 - One year type coin to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Bank of Israel (1980 issue)
General Market Notes
Though there is a large amount of circulating coins finding one for sale may prove difficult for those not from Israel. Not an expensive coin when you find one but many dealers (especially in the U.S.) simply do not have the coin.