Summary

Alternative Name(s): Medallion

Anzac Day school children's medal, issued for sale in 1916 by the Victorian Department of Education to school children. 175,000 of the medals were made, which proved insufficient for demand. The Argus reported that 'A medal has been struck by the Education department in commemoration of Anzac day, and will be sold to children at the school celebration for sixpence. The medal will also be distributed to the public on Anzac Button day next week, at 1/.' ( 19 April 1916, p.9).

A description of Anzac Day in a Victorian school that year was provided by the Willaura Farmer: 'Anzac Day was celebrated at the Willaura school... During the first hour of the afternoon patriotic songs were sung, maps of Gallipoli drawn, and talks about Anzac took place between teachers and scholars. About half a-dozen essays on Anzac Day were written during the week and read during the afternoon, the prize for the best being won by Alex Lindon. At 3 p.m. the children and parents gathered round the flag pole. Kipling's Recessional and "Oh God our help in ages past," were sung and addresses given by Mr. F. L. Hume, Mr. T. W. Murphy, and Mr. T. Millear. All present saluted the flag, and repeated the usual declaration. The dominant note of the whole proceedings was one of gladness in sorrow and the hope, of ultimate victory. Unfortunately the Education department's medals did not come to hand.' (27 April 1916, p.2).

Obverse Description

Laurel wreath with word 'ANZAC' at centre, and inscription around 'DEPT. OF EDUCATION . VICTORIA / LEST . WE. FORGET . 25 . APR .15'. Brass ring through loop at top.

Reverse Description

Face of King George V in left profile, with inscription around 'FOR KING AND COUNTRY . 1916 . '

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