In the lead-up to Remembrance Day, Australia’s newest coloured circulating coin marks one hundred years since the unforgettable poem In Flanders Fields was first heard.
Announced today at the Royal Australian Mint (the Mint) by the Assistant Minister to the Treasurer, the Hon Alex Hawke MP, over two million coins of the 2015 $2 Coloured Circulating Coin – Remembrance Day are being produced and will allow many Australians to share the meaning behind Remembrance Day and the memorable poem.
“Continuing the tradition of sharing the Anzac story, the Royal Australian Mint has created a beautifully crafted and meaningful coin that will encourage conversation and education about Remembrance Day,” said Mr Hawke.
“My announcement today marks the official release of these coins which means they are now able to be distributed to banks for circulation. However, it is important to note it can take weeks, even months, to start seeing it in your area.”
The coin features an inscription of text from the In Flanders Fields poem as well as sculpted larks surrounding the soft orange coloured rings reminiscent of the sunset glow cited in the poem.
Royal Australian Mint CEO Mr Ross MacDiarmid said coloured circulating coins have become a wanted item by many, helping to enforce the powerful message that the coin portrays.
“Commemorative coins play a significant role in reaching many Australians and conveying an important message – everyone who finds this coin in their change will be able to reflect on the Anzac Centenary and Remembrance Day,” said Mr MacDiarmid.
“As a result of a huge demand for the red coloured circulating coin in April we have created some additional programs to help ensure the coin is accessible in a number of different ways.” said Mr MacDiarmid.
For a limited time only, the public will be able to buy a pack of 5 circulating coins at face value ($10) plus postage and handling by heading online to eshop.ramint.gov.au A collectible version in special themed packaging is also available for $12.50.
Also as promised this year, the Mint will be heading out of Canberra and popping up in rural centres as part of The Changeover Tour, with New South Wales as the first stop. A coin swap will take place in these areas with all of the 2015 commemorative circulating coins as well as other special collectible products. More information on these pop-up shops can be found on the Mint website.
For 2015 $2 Coloured Circulating Coin – Remembrance Day coin images please visit the Mint website post-event or contact Michelle Nakamura: 0418 164 769