Judaica / Zionism - Germany, Pair of Frankfurt am Main Synagogue Medals, 1882

Judaica / Zionism - Germany, Pair of Frankfurt am Main Synagogue Medals, 1882 A pair of medals issued in 1882 in Frankfurt am Main to commemorate the construction and expansion of the city’s main synagogue. The Frankfurt Jewish community was among the most influential in Europe, and the synagogue served as a central spiritual and communal landmark. One side of each medal features a dual depiction: the upper section shows the newly expanded synagogue, while the lower section shows an earlier or damaged structure. Around the rim appears the Hebrew inscription: "Gadol Yihyeh Kevod HaBayit HaAcharon Min HaRishon" meaning “The glory of the latter house shall surpass that of the former, ” a verse from the Prophet Haggai expressing renewal and hopeful rebuilding. The reverse combines German and Hebrew inscriptions. At the top appears the German text: "ISRAEL GEMEINDE SYNAGOGE FRANKFURT A M" Translation: Synagogue of the Israelite Community of Frankfurt am Main. At the center appears the Hebrew phrase: "Kol Kenisa Shehi LeShem Shamayim Sofa Lehitkayem" meaning “Any undertaking done for the sake of Heaven is destined to endure.” At the bottom appears the German inscription: "ERBAUT 1860 VERGRÖSSERT 1882" Translation: Built in 1860 expanded in 1882. These medals offer a vivid historical reflection of Jewish communal renewal in Frankfurt during the 19th century and highlight the community’s dedication to strengthening its spiritual and public institutions. Right Medal Weight: 24.593 g Diameter: 40 mm Left Medal Weight: 6.834 g Diameter: 40 mm