Day 16: Accessibility By Design: The Israeli Shekel
We’ve all used shekalim. Whether it’s buying falafel, paying for a bus ride, or picking up a coffee in Israel, handling Israeli currency is something many of us do without thinking twice. But the design of the Israeli shekel tells a powerful story about accessibility in action.
Israeli banknotes are intentionally designed to be accessible for people who are blind or have low vision. Each bill is a different size, increasing in length as the value increases, which allows someone to identify the bill by touch alone. The bills also include raised tactile lines that can be felt with a finger, as well as bold, high contrast colors that make the numbers easier to see for people with low vision. Large, clear numerals further support visibility and recognition.
These thoughtful design features allow people to manage their own money independently and with confidence. They reduce reliance on others for everyday tasks and help preserve dignity in moments that matter.
The shekel reminds us that accessibility often lives in the details. When inclusion is built into everyday systems from the start, it empowers individuals and strengthens the entire community.
