2014 Australia at War. Battle of Cocos Islands 50 Cent Uncirculated in Card

Shortly after dawn on 9 November 1914, Australian troop transports and warships received the call that the German raider SMS Emden was lurking in the region of Port Refuge in the Cocos-Keeling Islands. The closest warship was the HMAS Sydney, which engaged in a protracted and blazing battle with the Emden. Whilst forcing the Emden to be grounded on the North Keeling Island Reef, 134 German crewmen were killed in the battle. However, it was much more noteworthy that the wounded German prisoners sang resounding praises of the Australians who treated them. This mutual respect under adversity instilled a long-lasting sense of pride and admiration for this noble force, remembered on the anniversary of this battle.

Coin’s reverse features an intricate design of the two ships involved in the battle, mirrored on the open sea. Design also includes geographical coordinates of the battle’s location. The white, red and blue coloured stripes featured on the packaging are representative of the ribbon colours on the medal given out during this time.

Part of the Australia at War series, which features 18 coins that reflect the nation’s pride in our brave servicemen and women.

*Stock images courtesy of the Royal Australian Mint.