Art in Israel
Israel's 38^th Anniversary of Independence Coin 1986/5746

The extent, scope and excitement of Israel's artistic activities belie the country's small size. The many cultures brought by immigrants, inspired by Israel's unique landscapes,result in art which serves as a distinctive expression of the Israeli scene, its society and values. Israel's achievements in the arts are manifold, and Israeli artists have achieved world renown. But Israelis are consumers of art as well as producers. Over 1.2 million attend concerts and theatrical performances every year, and one out of five Israelis visit one of Israel's 100 museums monthly - especially the Israel Museum, which also attracts many foreign visitors. Dozens of orchestras and choral groups are active throughout the country, a number of music festivals are held each year and the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra makes periodic world tours to enthusiastic critical acclaim. Numerous dance companies perform works by the world's foremost choreographers, and over 100,000 people participate regularly in the many folk dance groups all over Israel.

Obverse: The words "Art in Israel" in Hebrew and in English, Face Value - 10 New Sheqalim on the Gold Coin, 2 New Sheqalim on the Silver Proof Coin and 1 New Sheqel on the Silver B.U - the Israel State Emblem, word "Israel" in Hebrew, English and Arabic and mint year 5746-1986

Reverse: Abstract symbols representing the various arts, literature, music, architecture, graphic art, and sculpture.

Edge: Gold coin - milled. Silver Proof and Silver B.U. coins - 38 years of the State of Israel, in ancient Hebrew letters.

Mint Marks: On the obverse of the B.U. coin, a Star of David, on the obverse of the proof-gold and silver - the Hebrew letter "mem".

Designer: Assaf Berg and Tidhar Dagan.

Mint: Gold Coin - Mint of Munich., Silver Proof and Silver B.U. coins - Monnaie de Paris