Australian Rugby League Centenary Coin
1st November 2007
It is a rare tribute reserved for the truly great moments in Australian sport, and the Centenary of Rugby League has been honoured with that status. The Royal Australian Mint tonight unveiled a first for Rugby League by releasing a commemorative $1 coin celebrating the Centenary of the game in Australia. NRL Chief Executive, Mr David Gallop, ARL Chief Executive, Mr Geoff Carr, and Raiders captain, Mr Alan Tongue, were among the guests at the launch at the Royal Australian Mint in Canberra. The first dedicated Rugby League coin the Royal Australian Mint has produced features the Centenary of Rugby League logo in a design that represents the game’s anniversary theme of ‘inspiring the future’. While the coin is legal tender, it won’t be released into general circulation, making it a valuable and sought-after memento for coin collectors around the world as well as for Rugby League fans seeking a unique piece of Centenary memorabilia. “Commemorative coins have marked some of the landmark events in Australian history and it’s a tribute to the game that the Centenary of Rugby League is being included in that company,” Mr Gallop said tonight. “It is a unique collectible for fans and a symbol of the significant place Rugby League holds in our community.” Mr Carr added: “The Centenary is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration and a tribute like this reflects the importance it holds for Rugby League fans across the country. “We thank the Royal Australian Mint for this honour.”
Janine Murphy, the Chief Executive of the Royal Australian Mint, said: “Rugby League is one of Australia’s favourite sports whether you are a player, or spectator. “It is steeped in tradition, with great players and great matches becoming part of Australia’s folklore. “The Royal Australian is therefore thrilled to mark the Centenary of this great game through the release of this specially designed coin. “The Royal Australian Mint is honouring this significant sporting milestone because we recognise the important role Rugby League has played in the Australian community and culture over the last 100 years. “The Royal Australian Mint is very proud of this first coin in a series commemorating the Centenary of Rugby League.