25th ANNIVERSARY OF THE STATE OF ISRAEL

JS-11 May 14, 1973 commemorates the 25th anniversary of the State of Israel. The Independence Day stamp was cancelled on the 25th anniversary of the U.N. proclamation establishing the State of Israel. The painting is of the famed Knesset Menorah, which was commissioned by members of Britain's Parliament and by private citizens, as a tribute to Israel. It was presented officially in Jerusalem in April 1956. The menorah is 15 feet high and 12 feet wide. Its seven branches are decorated with 29 panels representing figures and events in the history of the Jewish people. The Knesset menorah has become one of the world's most renowned and beloved landmarks. The coin chosen for this cover is the 1973 BU 1/2 lire - with the symbol of Israel, the menorah. 65 Produced