Two Dollars 2023 Lest We Forget (Coloured Mosaic), Coin from Australia - detailed information

The two dollar coin denomination (written as $2) was introduced in Australia in 1988, replacing the earlier banknotes. The original reverse design by Horst Hahne on circulating coins has not been changed since its introduction. The denomination is also often used to issue circulating commemorative coins with various reverses.

Apart from the circulating coinage, both the Royal Australian Mint and the Perth Mint have extensive programs issuing $2 coins for collectors (Non-Circulating Legal Tender, or NCLT), such as this one.

This coloured two dollar design was first issued in 2017 to mark ANZAC DAY - commemorating Australia's participation in World War I, and is a tribute to all who have served Australia in times of conflict.

At the centre of the Australian War Memorial lies the Hall of Memory. A quiet, poignant tribute to those who have given their lives during times of conflict, this touching monument is home to the Tomb of The Unknown Australian Soldier, and can only be reached by passing the names of the more than 102,000 who have made the ultimate sacrifice for Australia. A focal point of the Hall is its domed ceiling - depicted on the reverse of the coin - adorned with an intricate mosaic design rich with symbolism, from the wreath of wattle to indicate the fallen, to the continuous, golden chain around its edge, representing the seamless journey from earthly life to a spiritual domain. Many of these motifs and sentiments are echoed in the coin's reverse design, which also incorporates the dome's hues of blue, green and yellow.

The mosaic was created by artist Napier Waller who lost an arm serving in the First World War. Comprising of more than six million tesserae tiles, Waller's work is one of the largest in the world.

The design was re-issued as non-circulating legal tender (NCLT) in 2023 as part of a set commemorating the 35th anniversary of the $2 denomination.