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Commemorative medal of the HMAS SYDNEY and SMS EMDEN battle
Commemorative medal of the HMAS SYDNEY and SMS EMDEN battle

Commemorative medal of the HMAS SYDNEY and SMS EMDEN battle

Date1914
Object number00040632
NameMedallion
MediumSilver, cloth
DimensionsOverall: 95 x 40 x 3 mm
ClassificationsCoins and medals
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThe victory of HMAS SYDNEY (I) over SMS EMDEN in World War I was an important moment for many Australians and testament to the until then untried in battle Royal Australian Navy. This commemorative medal was issued by 'the people of Western Australia' to Boatswain Alfred Moule Martin and the rest of SYDNEY's crew.HistoryOn 9 November 1914, while escorting a convoy near the Cocos Islands, the light cruiser HMAS SYDNEY was detached to investigate the sighting of a strange warship. This ship turned out to be the German light cruiser EMDEN. In the ensuing battle, SYDNEY destroyed the EMDEN. Subsequently SYDNEY gained fame for being the first Royal Australian Navy vessel to win a battle. The defeat of the EMDEN had a postive impact on the national psyche during World War I and many Australians celebrated the victory. The defeat of the EMDEN provided some welcome good news for the community and boosted the war effort. SignificanceMany commemorative items were produced to honour and celebrate the victory. This item demonstrates the affection and pride felt by members of the local Western Australian community towards the naval personnel who served on HMAS SYDNEY (I).