Corporal Ben Roberts-Smith VC, MG has recently been announced as the ambassador for Australia’s Official Anzac Centenary Coin Program.
The centenary of the outbreak of the First World War approaches on 4 August, Corporal Roberts-Smith VC, MG visited Telopea Park School in Canberra with Mint CEO, Ross MacDiarmid. As the Mint’s ambassador he spoke with Year 9 students about Australia’s centenary of service. Corporal Roberts-Smith VC, MG said that for five decades the Mint has commemorated Australian stories of historical and cultural significance through coins.
“The story of our Anzacs, past and present, is an important narrative to share and one that the Mint plays a crucial role in telling. I am honoured to have this opportunity during our commemorative period to educate and inspire a younger generation about the Anzac story,” Corporal Roberts commented.
Mint CEO Ross MacDiarmid said the Official Anzac Centenary Coin Program was a way to honour the first ANZACs and all those who have served since.
“These meaningful commemorative coins offer an opportunity to own a piece of our history, something to collect and treasure. The Mint along with Ben, as our ambassador endeavour to share these stories with all Australians during the Anzac Centenary,” said Mr MacDiarmid.

The Mint is presenting Telopea Park School with a three year subscription to the Australia at War coin series. The 18 coin set will detail Australia’s wartime history from the Boer War to Afghanistan. Five schools visiting the Mint on the anniversary of the commencement of First World War, 4 August 2014, will also receive subscriptions to the coin series.