Description

The Church of the Nativity, also known as the Basilica of the Nativity, stands in Bethlehem, West Bank, Palestine, and holds immense religious significance for Christians worldwide as the birthplace of Jesus. This ancient basilica encompasses a grotto believed to be the exact site of Jesus' birth, making it the oldest continuously used place of worship in Christianity. Originally commissioned by Constantine the Great in the 4th century, shortly after his mother Helena's pilgrimage to Jerusalem and Bethlehem, the basilica has endured centuries of history. While the original structure, built between 330 and 333, likely succumbed to fire during Samaritan revolts in the 6th century, it was rebuilt by Byzantine Emperor Justinian in a grander form, preserving much of its original essence, including an atrium, a basilica with a nave and side aisles, and an ornate transept with three apses.

Hussein bin Talal (1935–1999) was King of Jordan from the abdication of his father, King Talal, in 1952, until his death. Hussein's rule extended through the Cold War and four decades of Arab–Israeli conflict.

Obverse

Depicts a bust of Hussein bin Talal, encircled by the inscriptions "Hussein bin Talal" and "King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan," with the denomination written in Arabic numerals and letters, along with the date in Hijri format below. Positioned above is the coat of arms of Jordan.

The coat of arms of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan features the Royal Hashemite Crown, symbolizing monarchy, adorned with lotus flowers atop a crimson sash representing purity and sacrifice. Two flags symbolize the Great Arab Revolt, while an eagle stands on the globe, signifying power and the emergence of Islamic civilization. Arab weaponry, including swords and spears, is depicted alongside a shield adorned with a chrysanthemum motif, representing defense. Wheat ears and a palm frond encircle the shield, connected to the ribbon of the Al Nahda First Order Medal, which bears inscriptions honoring historical figures and the kingdom's sovereignty.

الحسين بن طلال
المملكة الأردنية الهاشمية
٣/٤
ثلاثة أرباع دينار
١٣٨٩

Reverse

Depicts the Grotto of the Nativity enclosed within a circle, featuring an inscription below, while the country name appears above it. The denomination, expressed in English numerals and letters, along with the date in the Gregorian calendar, is positioned below the design.

The Grotto of the Nativity, believed to be the birthplace of Jesus, is a subterranean chamber serving as the crypt beneath the main altar of the Church of the Nativity. Accessible via two staircases flanking the chancel, it holds profound religious significance for Christians.

THE HASHEMITE KINGDOM OF JORDAN
1000
SHRINE OF NATIVITY-BETHLEHEM
THREE QUARTERS 3/4 1969
DINAR

Edge

3/4 Dinar

Shrine of the Nativity - Bethlehem

KM# 22 Schön# 21
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Silver
Fineness 0.999
Weight 30 g
Diameter 46 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Coin
Alt # KM# PS3, KM# PS4, KM# PS6
Mint
Royal Mint

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