AHS Centaur Commemorative Proof

The loss of AHS Centaur was one of the most heartbreaking chapters of World War II. The sinking of an unarmed hospital ship in defiance of accepted military protocols reinforced the danger of the Pacific region and the brutality of an enemy who ignored the accepted conventions of war. But from this loss, we also saw the ANZAC spirit at its finest. The lone surviving nurse from the attack, Sister Ellen Savage, comforted her comrades as they drifted for a day and half in shark-infested waters. Gravely injured, she put the needs of her shipmates above her own. Her selflessness was recognised with a prestigious George Medal. On the homefront, the nation was steeled into greater action with the words “avenge our nurses” foremost in people’s minds. 2023 marks the 80th anniversary of the sinking of the AHS Centaur, a time when we remember the strength of character of those we lost who represent the nobility which defines the ANZAC legend. Presenting “AHS Centaur Commemorative Proof”, available exclusively from The Bradford Exchange

The centrepiece of this commemoration is a segment from the now famous “Avenge our nurses” poster which steeled Australia into greater action in the war effort. The fiery inferno which engulfed the Centaur blazes with renewed urgency. As the ship slips beneath the waves the now iconic slogan “avenge our nurses” remains a potent motivator and a reminder of the courage required of a nation to overcome an implacable enemy. A richly detailed metallic rendering of the Centaur offers a fascinating interpretation of the ship, while statistics outline the enormity of the loss of life. A cameo portrait of a nurse named Sister Myrle Mary Eileen Moston and poppy rosettes honour those who lost their lives. A red cross, the universal symbol of medical aid which featured prominently in the Centaur’s livery, brings the design to a fitting, heartfelt conclusion. Lest we forget.

Features

The AHS Centaur Commemorative Proof exclusive to The Bradford Exchange features:

• Layered in pure 24-carat gold
• Detailed metallic rendering of the Centaur offers a fascinating interpretation of the ship
• A cameo portrait of a nurse named Sister Myrle Mary Eileen Moston and poppy rosettes honour those who lost their lives
• Huge 65mm diameter weighing approx. 110 grams
• Global release of just 599
• Exceptional Proof quality, the highest possible minting standard
• Numbered Certificate of Authenticity and luxury presentation case