Medalets, Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, 1953 1953

Summary

The Council’s most lasting coronation gesture was to present commemorative medals to the city’s schoolchildren. On Coronation Eve, Monday 1 June 1953, Victorian state school students recited a solemn declaration: "Remembering that the Queen, at her Coronation, is making a promise that, with God’s help, she will try to rule wisely and well, I also promise that I will loyally serve my Queen and my country, obey the laws, and, by working hard, do my best to be a good and useful citizen." The coronation medal was meant as an embodiment of that pledge. At Princes Hill State School, in Carlton, children of eight nationalities stood in line for their medals. Robyn Annear, “Special” exhibition text, City Gallery, 2015