Pre-Long Beach Auction #81

Israel. Masada, State Gold Medal, 1965. 15 grams. 917 fine. 27 mm. Masada was built by Jonathan the Hasmonean (Maccabee) atop a steep rocky precipice rising 450 meters above the Dead Sea. Herod added to the fortifications, and this is wear 960 fighters, women and children held out for three years following the destruction of the Temple in 70 EC. Rather than be taken as prisoners by the Romans they all chose to commit suicide. Israelis do not intend to repeat this history, explaining the mottos appearing on the medal: "Masada shall not fall again" and "We shall remain free men." Choice Brilliant Uncirculated. Estimated Value $450 - 500