2018 $5 Fine Silver Proof Coin – Sir John Monash

2018 $5 Fine Silver Proof Coin – Sir John Monash

Sir John Monash is one of the greatest figures in Australian history. An outstanding commander during the First World War, he continued his exceptional service upon his return. His postwar endeavours both served the community and helped build the nation we are privileged to enjoy today. Military enthusiasts, proud Australians and collectors will all value the story of one of Australia’s greatest figures, told with these unique coins.

HISTORY AND SIGNIFICANCE
Sir John Monash is one of the greatest figures in Australian history. A brilliant tactician, he was one of the outstanding commanders of the First World War and was knighted for his services in 1918.

As an engineer prior to the war, Monash introduced the use of reinforced concrete into Victoria. Returning to Melbourne after the war, he became chairman of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria, and under his leadership the Commission extended the power grid across the entire state. Later he was appointed
Vice-Chancellor of the University of Melbourne. A spokesman for returned soldiers, Monash guided construction of Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance and led the annual Anzac Day march. Monash University in Melbourne is named in his honour.

Monash died on 8 October 1931 aged 66 from a heart attack and was given a state funeral attended by some 250,000 mourners.

FEATURES AND DESIGN
• Certificate of Authenticity
• Coin’s obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II designed by Ian Rank-Broadley
• Australian legal tender
• Limited mintage 2 500
• Fitting of an inspirational Australian, the coin’s reverse design features a stately portrait of Sir John Monash