Israel - 25 Mils 1949 - Straight Leaves - KM# 8 - NGC XF 40

Israel - 25 Mils 1949 - Straight Leaves - KM# 8 - NGC XF 40 A rare and unusual variety of the Israeli 25 Mils coin, combining characteristics of both the well-known “Closed Link” and “Open Link” types. The upper section of the obverse shows connected links similar to the “Closed Link” type, while the lower section displays smooth primary leaf tips without perforation, characteristic of the “Open Link” type. Due to these distinctive features, this variety is commonly referred to by collectors as the “Straight Leaves” type. This is an extremely rare variety, documented in only a very limited number of examples, most of which are found in heavily circulated condition. The present specimen, graded XF 40 by NGC, represents a relatively high-grade example for this variety, and pieces of this type are very rarely offered for sale. Following the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 and until 1952, the mil (alongside the Palestine Pound) served as legal tender. The only coin denominated in mils issued by the State of Israel was the 25 Mils. Obverse: Denomination “25 Mils” within a wreath of stylized olive branches. Reverse: The inscription “Israel” in Hebrew and Arabic alongside a stylized grape cluster. In 1949, approximately 650,000 examples of the 25 Mils coin were struck in Jerusalem and Holon, including all known types and varieties of this issue. On September 6, 1950, the coin ceased to be legal tender. In 1952, with the transition from the Palestine Pound to the Israeli Lira, the mil was replaced by the pruta.