World War One Centenary Sovereign Collection

issued by: Government of Gibraltar

Diameter: Various | Weight: Various | Metal: AU GOLD 916/1000

Marking 100 years since the end of the Great War

World War One, also known as the Great War was a global conflict originating in Europe and lasting from 28 July 1914 to 11 November 1918. The Great War would see the mobilization of 70 million military personnel in one of the largest wars in history and 16 million civilian and military casualties. The four years of fighting finally came to a close with the surrender of the German forces at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918.

Remembrance Day initially recalled the end of hostilities of the First World War which formally ended at the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month. However, Remembrance Day has gone on to remember the catastrophic loss of life, and the heroes who sacrificed themselves for our country through all major battles and conflicts. The first stroke of eleven on Remembrance Day produces attention to our history and respect to the greatness lost at war. It is a day where our two minutes of silence speaks the loudest words and memory broods all over the country.

Reverse Design: The design depicts a soldier of the great war looking to the floor clutching his rifle in a moment of reflection. The symbol of remembrance ‘the poppy’ is depicted encircled by the inscription “AT THE GOING DOWN OF THE SUN & IN THE MORNING WE WILL REMEMBER THEM”.