Historama Autumn Mail Auction #5

"Kofer ha'Yishuv" female donor ring, 1938-1939; 2.15cm; 2.3g. Between 1938-48 the Jewish community in Pal. instituted self-defence fund-raising program (Kofer Ha'Yishuv - 'Community Levy'), a non-voluntary levy self-imposed on the Jews - on imports, entertainment, drinks, & even as imposed contributions during key Jewish holidays (evaders faced "honor courts"). Residents were encouraged to donate items of precious metals (an initiative called "Matat Takhshitim" - giving of jewelry), in exchange for which they would receive a 'token' - a ring, a pin, a document.