123

AUSTRALIA'S FIRST VICTORIA CROSS
FRAMED PRIVY MARK

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the awarding of the first Victoria Cross
to an Australian, The Perth Mint has issued a limited number of
commemorative, coloured, privy mark coins, each presented in a serial
numbered frame with a replica of the Victoria Cross.
The first Australian recipient of the Victoria Cross was Lieutenant Neville
Reginald Howse, a doctor and volunteer in the New South Wales
Medical Corps, serving in South Africa in 1900. On 24th July,
Australian and Boer forces clashed near Vredefort. The Boers deployed
two heavy guns and the Australians began to take several casualties. At
the height of the battle, Howse saw a trumpeter fall badly wounded,
and despite heavy crossfire, he rode to his aid. Before reaching him,
however, Howse's horse was shot from under him, yet he proceeded on
foot and tended the soldier's wounds, eventually carrying the man back
to safety. Shortly afterwards he was taken prisoner while treating
another officer under fire. He was released six weeks later as a non-
combatant. He later served in the 1914-1918 war and landed at
Gallipoli. Howse had a distinguished service record and quickly rose
through the ranks. He eventually was given the rank of Surgeon
General and was knighted in 1917. His Victoria Cross is the only one
awarded to a member of the Australian medical forces. This medal can
be seen on display at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.
This commemorative issue contains a 2000 dated, 2oz pure silver, proof
Kookaburra coin, which features a coloured privy mark of the Victoria
Cross highlighted against the polished background of the host coin. A
replica of the medal is also presented with the special privy mark coin.
The issue is limited to just 1000 framed collections. This piece is a
stunning way to remember the history of the Cross.

WONDERFUL ITEM TO HANG IN YOUR OFFICE / STUDY!!

$255.00AU

CLICK ON PICTURE TO VIEW FULL SIZE

Want to buy this item simply click here

And Use Stock Number #123

Square Trade your quality assurance company for the net!
Just click on the banner to find out more or join.