SYMBOLIC purple flowers and green leaves of rosemary for remembrance adorn Australia's newest circulating two dollar coin minted to commemorate the 99th anniversary of the Armistice which ended the First World War.
The coin was unveiled yesterday (Thursday) by Minister for Small Business Michael McCormack at the Hyde Park Anzac Memorial Pool of Reflection.
Mr McCormack said the special coins were a symbolic reminder to encourage people all around Australia to reflect on those who made the ultimate sacrifice and gave their lives during service.
"On the 99th anniversary of the Armistice which ended the First World War, the nation will observe one minute's silence, in memory of those who died or suffered in all wars and armed conflicts," said Mr McCormack.
"Rosemary has traditionally been worn on Anzac Day and Remembrance Day as a way to commemorate those who have died in active service and other military operations.
"This is the sixth coloured circulating coin made by the Royal Australian Mint to honour the bravery and sacrifice of our servicemen and women. Over two million of these coins will be released into public circulation over the coming weeks."
The Mint's Chief Executive Ross MacDiarmid said the Mint had a long and proud history of marking special commemorative events with coinage playing a significant role in reaching many Australians with an important message.
"As we near the final year of the Anzac Centenary these coins will be a lasting memory so that we continue to reflect and remember for years to come.
Coins are available for purchase from the Mint's website.
A contribution from the sale of all collectable coins in the Royal Australian Mint's Official Anzac Centenary Coin Program is made to the Anzac Centenary Public Fund.
