Memorial plaque for John Wyatt. These commemorative medallions were presented to the next-of-kin of men and women who died during WWI. The medal (which became known as a Dead Man’s Penny) depicts an image of Lady Britannia surrounded by two dolphins (representing Britain’s sea power) and a lion (representing Britain) standing over a defeated eagle (symbolising Germany), with the eagle being torn apart by a second lion. Around the outer edge are the words ‘He died for freedom and honour’.  The deceased soldier’s name was inscribed, with no rank provided to show equality in their sacrifice.

The Dead Man’s Penny was accompanied by a letter from King George V, stating: ‘I join with my grateful people in sending you this memorial of a brave life given for others in the Great War’.

Not all recipients were happy to receive the medal, some even returning it to the Australian Government in protest at losing their family member.

• Dead Man's Penny (2015) by Gabrielle Murphy, Medical History Museum, University of Melbourne, <read online here>