This photograph provides an insight into the atmosphere in Sydney on 11 November 1918. Typical of scenes throughout the country, it shows a euphoric crowd in Martin Place celebrating news of the end of World War I.
“The utmost jubilation and enthusiasm prevailed in Martin-place and Moore-street”, the Sydney Morning Herald reported. So dense were the crowds that the city trams were suspended. Meanwhile, “brass band after brass band” played in front of the Soldiers’ Club on George Street.
After almost four and a half years of bloodshed during which more than 60,000 Australian troops were killed and 156,000 were wounded, gassed, or taken prisoner, the joy on the people’s faces is palpable.
End of World War I 100th Anniversary 2018 Stamp and Coin Cover
The image on the envelope of this commemorative stamp and coin cover honouring those who sacrificed their lives during World War I captures a group of jubilant soldiers among the crowd on Sydney’s Hunter Street. In spite of their joyous expressions, the feelings of these men must have been tempered by sombre memories of their terrible experiences.
The limited tribute of no more than 7,500 incorporates an Australian coin portraying a dove, which has for millennia symbolised peace. The bird is carrying a poppy, the first flower to bloom in the devastated battlefields of Western Europe and now a universally recognised symbol of remembrance.
The prized collectable also features an Australia Post stamp representing the end to hostilities. The jubilant mood shown in the background image, with young women rejoicing on the streets of Sydney, is in contrast to the more conflicted feelings among the troops in Europe where the bodies of many mates lost in battle would be left buried in war ravaged landscapes.
