2015 $1 Coloured Frosted Uncirculated Carded Coin - Murphy the Donkey

Description

Donkeys are well equipped with sturdy feet and shorter legs than horses, and are built to withstand the hot or rugged environments better than their equine cousins. They also have the strength and endurance that allows them to conquer the steepest hills and rockiest surfaces, even with a lot of weight on their backs.

In the First World War, donkeys were four-legged delivery trucks, transporting water and ammunition to soldiers. John Simpson Kirkpatrick, a stretcher- bearer with the 3rd Field Ambulance, decided that one donkey (named Murphy) was destined for greater duties. A simple blanket and bandages gave Murphy a saddle and a bridle, and he became an ambulance to carry battle worn and wounded soldiers.

Murphy served on Gallipoli for three weeks until John's untimely death on 19 May 1915, and then served alongside New Zealander Dick Henderson. In 1997, the RSPCA Purple Cross was awarded to Murphy for service during the First World War.

• The 2015 six coin series released as part of the Royal Australian Mint's $1 coloured frosted uncirculated coin range
  
• A heartfelt tribute to the sacrifice and effort of Australia's war heroes, great and small
  
• The reverse design features a modern interpretation of an Australian war hero: Murphy the Donkey, surrounded by an artist's rendition of the landscape of war in colour print
  
• Obverse features Queen Elizabeth II effigy sculpted by lan Rank-Broadley
  
• Australian legal tender

NOMINAL SPECIFICATIONS
Denomination $1
Year 2015
Metal content AlBr
Mass 9.00 g
Diameter 25.00 mm
Finish Frosted Uncirculated
Maximum mintage 30 000
Packaging Card
Obverse designer
lan Rank-Broadley
Reverse designer
Royal Australian Mint