2014 Australia at War. Australian Flying Corps 50 Cent Uncirculated in Card
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| Coin Type: | 50c |
| Grade: | Uncirculated |
| Year: | 2014 |
| Mint: | Royal Australian Mint |
| Mintage: | 50,000 |
| Metal: | Copper Nickel |
| Diameter (approx): | 31.51mm |
| Mass (approx): | 15.55g |
| Obverse: | Queen Elizabeth II (Ian Rank-Broadley) |
| Reverse: | AFC Personnel (Aaron Baggio) |
The Australian Flying Corps (AFC) was established in 1911, allowing Australia the distinction of being the only British dominion to have a flying corps in the First World War. From modest beginnings, it formed the foundation of the Royal Australian Air Force, ensuring the role of aircraft in future military operations.
During the Mesopotamian campaign in 1915, the AFC answered the call for resources, supplying four officers and 41 men in support of the Anglo-Indian forces who were battling a Turkish threat around the Persian Gulf.
The brave men of the AFC were from many backgrounds and left a diverse legacy. Former school teacher Frank McNamara became the AFC’s only Victoria Cross recipient and Sir Lawrence James Wackatt, ’Father of the Australian aircraft industry,’ was knighted for his services. Two officers, Hudson Fysh and Paul McGinness, purchased an Avro aircraft laying the foundations for the Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Service, better known today as Qantas.
Reverse design inspired by archival imagery held by the Australian War Memorial. This features a depiction of AFC personnel and an example of the early, agile aircraft used in battle.
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.
