Small Denomination Coin Appraisal

Israel 1 Agora Coin (Scalloped edge)

This is a 1 Agora coin from Israel, a small denomination of the Israeli Shekel or Lira, characterized by its distinctive 12-notched scalloped (dodecagonal) edge. The coin is minted from an aluminum-magnesium alloy, giving it a dull, silvery-grey matte appearance. This specific design was introduced around 1960. The obverse features the numeral '1' prominently in the center, with the word 'Agora' written in Hebrew script (אגורה) above it and the name of the country in Hebrew and Arabic. There are visible signs of significant environmental wear and surface oxidation, typical for soft aluminum coins. The surface exhibits a heavy patina, fine pitting, and numerous small scratches or 'bag marks.' Notably, the raised details are becoming soft due to circulation. There are no obvious mint marks visible in this lighting, but the piece displays the utilitarian, mid-20th-century craftsmanship typical of state-issued circulation coinage. The scalloped shape was specifically chosen to help visually and tactilely distinguish it from other denominations.