2014 Centenary of the First AIF Convoy 1oz Silver Proof Coin

The story of the Australian Imperial Forces’ journey from Albany is a story of passion and determination to participate in Australia’s war efforts.

On 1 November 1914, some 30 000 Australian and New Zealand soldiers set sail from Albany, Western Australia, as part of the Australian Imperial Forces convoy. They were experiencing many of the feelings that accompany these sorts of endeavours: hope, uncertainty, pride, anticipation, fear, and before too long, disappointment.

While the convoy was in the Arabian Sea, those onboard received word that Turkey had entered the war against Britain. Instead of joining the main war effort, they were sent to Egypt and spent the following months training at Mena Camp.

The soldiers finally received their long awaited orders on 1 April 1915. After five months of feeling sidelined, they joined the British forces in battle on the Gallipoli peninsula. This was their opportunity to show their bravery and devotion to their countries as ANZACs.

This coin is limited to only 10,000 Silver proof coins being released and comes with a Numbered certificate of authenticity.