Israel - Rothschild Medal 1966 - Silver 986, 40g, 45mm Baron Edmond (Abraham Benjamin) de Rothschild ...

Israel - Rothschild Medal 1966 - Silver 986, 40g, 45mm Baron Edmond (Abraham Benjamin) de Rothschild, scion of the famous banking family, was born in 1 845. In Jewish history he merited the accolade of the "famous benefactor." He is credited with saving the early settlements from economic collapse and for helping establish new ones. Between 1887 and 1925 "the famous benefactor" visited Palestine five times. He helped Chaim Weizmann in his political efforts and greatly assisted cultural and educational institutions. His remains were brought to Israel in 1954 and were interred in Zichron Valley. His son, James, added to his father's achievements and widened his area of interests. James died in 1957 and by his will, PICA was dissolved, its land holdings being given to the Jewish National Fund. A large sum from his estate contributed to building the Knesset edifice in Jerusalem. Obverse: In the centre, two medallions, upon which appears a likeness of the "famous benefactor" and his son James. Beneath, the legend: "Edmond de Rothschild, father of the yishuv and his son James, who gave the Knesset its home." The above also in English. In the upper part, round the rim, a gold frame. The artist's signature, P. Vincze, in Hebrew and English. Reverse: Three sets of figures symbolizing the major achievements of the Rothschilds and PICA, in Israel (agriculture, education, industry). Above them, the Knesset. Round the rim, a golden frame. The artist's signature, P. Vincze, in Hebrew and English.