The Perth Mint is commemorating 100 Years of Australian Military Aviation with the release of a limited edition collector coin depicting a Bristol Boxkite aircraft – the first military aircraft flown in Australia at Point Cook, on 1 March 1914.
Operated by flight instructor Lieutenant Eric Harrison, the Bristol Boxkite was instrumental in the evolution of military aviation across the nation. Considered to be a state-of-the-art aircraft for its time, it was one of the most successful military training aircrafts.
Issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965, this superb tribute coin portrays a representation of a Bristol aircraft propeller with a military Boxkite flying under the propeller blade and an F/A-18 Hornet fighter aircraft soaring above it. The inscription 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF AUSTRALIAN MILITARY AVIATION, the dates 1914 – 2014, and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark are also included in the design.
This historic 1oz silver proof coin will be available for the first time at the Centenary of Military Aviation 2014 Air Show presented by the Royal Australian Air Force at RAAF Williams, Point Cook, Victoria over the weekend of 1st and 2nd March. This prominent event will feature a re-enactment of the very first military flight in Australia, and will highlight the significant advances in military aircraft during the past 100 years.
Perth Mint Sales and Marketing Director, Ron Currie added, “As the birthplace of Australia’s military aviation and the oldest continually operating military airfield in the world, we are exceptionally honoured to be launching the 100 Years of Australian Military Aviation commemorative coin at Point Cook.”
“We believe the tribute will be highly sought-after by Australian collectors, as well as serving and past members of the Royal Australian Air Force,” he added.
D.W. Gardner, Director of the Royal Australian Air Force Museum, said “Harrison’s inaugural flight of a Bristol Boxkite 100 years ago is recognised as the starting point of all military aviation in Australia. To mark this military milestone with a commemorative coin is simply outstanding. It is an exceptional keepsake.”
Priced at $80.35 (USD), only 5,000 of the 100 Years of Australian Military Aviation 2014 1oz Silver Proof Coins will be released by The Perth Mint.
Tickets for the Centenary of Aviation Air Show are now on sale. Encompassing a spectacular show with air and ground displays, this national event will also see the official unveiling of a newly built replica of a Bristol Boxkite aeroplane. For more information, please visit www.airforce.gov.au.
