top of page

STORIES

Making History: The ‘Promises Made, Promises Kept’ Challenge Coin for U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem Israel.

Writer: RenaeRenae

The ‘Promises Made, Promises Kept’ Coin for U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem Israel.

At Challenge Design, we don’t just make coins—we craft history. Some moments are too significant to be left to the pages of a book; they deserve to be held, felt, and remembered. That’s exactly what we set out to do with the Israel Embassy Promises Challenge Coin. The relocation of the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem wasn’t just another diplomatic move—it was a bold statement, decades in the making. When history unfolds before our eyes, it’s our mission to capture its essence in a way that stands the test of time. This coin and is etching and engravings has become a symbol of unity, resilience, and a promise kept.


May 14, 2018, wasn’t just another Monday of speeches and handshakes. It was a defining moment in diplomatic history. On this day, the United States officially moved its embassy to Jerusalem, a city that has been at the heart of global religious and political debates for centuries. The relocation wasn’t merely a shift in geography but a firm statement recognizing Jerusalem’s profound historical and spiritual connection to Israel. This was an acknowledgment of Israel’s eternal capital and a moment of pride for Israelis everywhere.


The U.S. has long been a staunch ally of Israel, and this embassy was 70 years in the making. That's right, 70 years! A solid seven decades of promises and political maneuvering had led to this moment, when the United States finally made good on a pledge many had made before. The U.S. and Israel have always shared strong bonds of trust, support, and mutual respect, and this act only solidified that connection, sending a loud and clear message of unwavering friendship.


Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu isn’t exactly known for sitting on the sidelines—he's been one of Israel's most steadfast leaders, steering the country through both its triumphs and its tribulations. During the embassy’s relocation, Netanyahu showed the world just how serious Israel is about Jerusalem. His eloquence, passion, and leadership really spoke to the media and echoed through history. He’s the kind of leader who leads a nation and makes sure everyone knows that nation’s values, history, and identity.


But here’s the thing about May 14, 2018 was about Israel’s 70th birthday too. Talk about a party. As the ribbon was cut and the new U.S. Embassy doors swung open, the streets of Jerusalem were buzzing with celebration. What better way to celebrate Israel’s 70th anniversary than by reaffirming Jerusalem as its capital? It was both a diplomatic act and a long-awaited victory; a true representation of what generations of Israelis had fought for.

 Promise made to move Israel Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem
Tel Aviv Israel Skyline at night with Israel Flag

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the symbolism here. Moving the embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem wasn’t like moving your office desk a few blocks over. This was a seismic shift—one that broke decades of diplomatic precedent. The message was loud and clear: Jerusalem is Israel’s capital, and it deserves to be recognized. It was about validating what so many had long known to be true. For many, it was a sigh of relief—finally, recognition, long overdue.


Now, for a bit of historical context—70 years ago, Israel declared its independence. Since then, this little country has faced monumental challenges, triumphs, and triumphs over challenges. Israel’s growth and resilience have been remarkable, and the relocation of the U.S. Embassy was the culmination of decades of struggle, prayers, and unwavering belief in their right to a united, undivided Jerusalem as their capital. This wasn’t just another diplomatic event—it was a moment of triumph, marking the closing of a long chapter of unmet promises and opening the door to a new era of recognition.

Of course, none of this would’ve been possible without some big promises along the way. It was President Donald Trump’s words in 2017 that helped turn the tide: “It is time to officially recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.” Those words weren’t just talk—they were a game-changer. While others had promised before, President Trump stepped up and made it happen. For many, it was a declaration that Jerusalem’s place in history was about to be recognized on the world stage.

In short, the U.S. Embassy move to Jerusalem was an act of courage, commitment, and celebration. It was about keeping promises made not only to Israel but to the world. It was about taking a bold step forward in diplomacy—one that reaffirmed not just Israel’s capital but its standing as a beacon of hope and strength in the Middle East. And you know what? It was worth the wait.


 

Israel Embassy Promises Challenge Coin

Creating the Israel Embassy Promises Challenge Coin was a rewarding journey for our team, one filled with history, symbolism, and pride. This platinum silver coin captures the essence of a monumental moment: the U.S. Embassy’s move to Jerusalem. With the flags of Israel and the United States proudly displayed, the coin immortalizes the unity between these two nations. At the center, you’ll find a raised silver depiction of the embassy building itself—a tribute to the promises made and the history that was about to be written. The perfect fusion of two iconic nations, this coin tells a story that spans decades of diplomacy, struggle, and triumph.



The Promises Kept Coin side for U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem Israel.

The inscriptions on the coin are a reminder of the strong bond between America and Israel. The inner rings, marked with "United States Embassy Jerusalem Israel" and "America and Israel are forever United promises kept," echo the deep commitment that was officially recognized on May 14th, 2018. And let’s not forget Prime Minister Netanyahu’s words: “By recognizing history, you have made history.” Those words resonate like a powerful call to action. It’s not every day you get to commemorate such a historic event on a challenge coin, so we made sure every detail mattered.


The ‘Promises Made, Promises Kept’ Coin for U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem Israel.
The ‘Promises Made' Coin side for U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem.

Flipping the coin reveals a highly detailed image of Jerusalem, with a road leading into the city. The street signs pointing to Jerusalem and Tel Aviv add a touch of charm, while a dove soaring toward the city represents hope and peace. With "70 years in the making" marking the long journey to this moment, it’s a nod to the decades of anticipation and dedication that built up to this landmark achievement. The coin beautifully encapsulates this historic turning point in just a few carefully crafted images.


Lastly, the words surrounding the Jerusalem skyline on the reverse side make this coin something truly special. “This sacred City shall call forth the best of humanity” sets a hopeful tone for what lies ahead, while President Trump’s promise, “It is time to officially recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel,” is etched into history. The two Jewish stars complete the design, reminding us of the importance of this historic moment. Whether you’re a collector or a history buff, this coin is a piece of memorabilia AND a token of a new chapter in U.S.-Israel relations.


Designing this challenge coin was an honor, but more than that, it was a responsibility. We knew this piece had to reflect the weight of the moment—the pride of two nations standing together, the fulfillment of a long-awaited promise, and the unshakable bond between the United States and Israel. Every detail, from the raised silver embassy to the guiding words of leaders, was carefully chosen to preserve this historic event. Whether you hold this coin as a collector, a patriot, or a believer in the enduring friendship between these nations, we hope it serves as a reminder of the day promises were kept, history was made, and Jerusalem’s place in the world was reaffirmed.


Our work with the Israeli Embassy and its ambassadors has been a tremendous honor, allowing us to craft designs that celebrate diplomatic strength and historical remembrance. From the official Israel Embassy challenge coin, which symbolizes the enduring U.S.-Israel alliance, to the personalized coins for Ambassador David Friedman and Ambassador Nides, each project has reflected the values and leadership of those who serve. Additionally, our March of the Living coin captured the profound significance of Holocaust remembrance and the commitment to educating future generations. These designs, much like our work on the White House Communication Agency 9/11 challenge coin, embody themes of resilience, unity, and commemoration, ensuring that history is honored and never forgotten.


Capturing History One Challenge Coin At A Time.


Contact us today to start creating your own piece of history.





Challenge Design Gallery
Challenge Design Gallery
Challenge Design Logo
Challenge Design Logo

United States embassy or Jerusalem Israel 

留言


View our Gallery for more Inspiration.

Contact us to get a project started today.

Email: mary@challengedesign.org

Call: 877.329.3973 (Toll Free)

Text or call: (cell) 518.210.2917

bottom of page