AI Appraisal Estimate

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.

I have virtually examined this Israel 1 Agora coin, identifying it as the scalloped-edge aluminum-magnesium variety, likely minted between 1960 and 1980. This piece is a standard circulation issue, notable for its distinctive 12-sided (dodecagonal) shape designed for easy tactile recognition. From a condition standpoint, the coin exhibits significant circulation wear, grading effectively as Very Good (VG) to Fine (F) at best. The soft aluminum alloy has suffered considerable surface oxidation and environmental damage, resulting in a dull, grey matte finish with pitting and numerous contact marks. The high points of the relief—specifically the numeral '1' and Hebrew lettering—show noticeable softening. There is no evidence of mint luster, which is critical for higher valuations in modern base-metal coinage. Market conditions for the 1 Agora series are heavily saturated. Millions were minted, and they are frequently found in 'poundage' lots of mixed world coins. While the scalloped design is collectible, it is not rare. Even uncirculated examples generally trade for under $3.00 unless they are specific key dates or error varieties, neither of which appear to be present here. Consequently, the value is primarily sentimental or minimal. Limitations of this appraisal include the inability to weigh the coin or examine the edge profile under magnification, which would rule out contemporary counterfeits (though counterfeiting such low-value items is rare). For a definitive attribution of the specific year—which is often located on the reverse near the ears of barley, not fully clear here—an in-hand inspection with a loupe is required. Without such verification, this is appraised strictly as a common, circulated specimen.