The Royal Australian Mint has launched Australia’s newest circulating coin, designed by Bundaberg artist Chern’ee Sutton, commemorating the Indigenous men and women who have served in the military.
Launching in Canberra, the coin was unveiled by the Aboriginal artist and Kalkadoon woman alongside Royal Australian Mint CEO Leigh Gordon.
Speaking at the launch Mr Gordon noted the importance of recognising Indigenous Australians who have served in the military on a coin.
“With this coin, the Royal Australian Mint acknowledges and celebrates Indigenous Australia’s longstanding tradition of serving in the military,” Mr Gordon said.
“Having served in every conflict and commitment involving Australian defence contingents, since Federation, including but not limited to, Gallipoli, Kokoda and Vietnam, the strength of Indigenous Service has been a constant throughout Australian history.”
Inspired by Chern’ee Sutton’s artwork, the design of the coin is rich with Indigenous and military symbols that represent the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have served in the Australian Defence Force.
During the unveiling, she thanked Indigenous personnel who have served and who continue to serve to defend Australia.
“I am honoured to have designed this significant artwork that recognises my brothers and sisters who have bravely fought in every conflict Australia has been involved in, it is a timely tribute to their sacrifices made for all of us.”
Featuring a black hand-print in the centre, surrounded by three rows of dots in the colours of the Defence Forces Tri-Service Flag, this colourful $2 coin will be released into circulation in the coming weeks.
For those looking to keep the coin, a limited edition uncirculated version is available to purchase from the Royal Australian Mint, the eShop or the Contact Centre (1300 652 020) from 8am, 1 April 2021.
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