1984 Israel 10,000 Sheqalim – A Currency of Transition

Explore the 1984 Israel 10,000 Sheqalim note (P-51), a fascinating piece from Israel’s monetary history during a period of economic adjustment.

Historical Context

Issued by the Bank of Israel, this 10,000 Sheqalim note was part of the Old Israeli Shekel series, which was in circulation from 1980 to 1985. Due to hyperinflation, the Old Shekel rapidly lost value, leading to its replacement by the New Israeli Shekel in 1985 at a conversion rate of 1,000:1.

Key Features & Specifications

Pick Number: P-51

Denomination: 10,000 Sheqalim

Material: Paper

Issuing Authority: Bank of Israel

Size: 138 × 76 mm

Printer: JEZ (without imprint)

Demonetized: September 4, 1986

Design Elements

Front: A portrait of Golda Meir, Israel’s fourth Prime Minister, alongside a stylized tree with intertwining branches forming a Star of David. The phrase "Let My People Go" appears in microprint, referencing her advocacy for Soviet Jews.

Back: A depiction of Golda Meir among Soviet Jews outside the Moscow Choral Synagogue, symbolizing her role in Jewish immigration efforts. The phrase "Let My People Go" is repeated in large and microprint.

Security Features

Watermark: Portrait of Golda Meir

Security Thread: Embedded in the middle of the note

Look-through Feature: A four-branched candelabrum on the front aligns with a three-branched candelabrum on the back to form a seven-branched menorah when held against light

Sign for the Visually Impaired: A rhombus in the upper right corner

Collector’s Appeal

This 10,000 Sheqalim note is a significant piece for numismatists, reflecting Israel’s economic challenges and political leadership during the early 1980s. With its historical relevance, artistic design, and transitional monetary value, it remains a sought-after item for collectors interested in Israeli currency history.