2014 Elizabeth II 'The 100th Anniversary of the First World War – Outbreak' £2 Coin

In 1914, Lord Kitchener was tasked with leading a recruitment campaign to build one of Britain's largest volunteer armies. His iconic "Your Country Needs You" poster, featuring a striking image of Kitchener pointing directly at the viewer, became strongly associated with the outbreak of the First World War and remains one of the most enduring symbols of wartime propaganda. This design was chosen to commemorate the centenary of the war's beginning in 2014, highlighting the government’s efforts to rally volunteers at the war's outset.

The poster’s image of Kitchener calling men to fight for King and country inspired thousands to enlist, creating a wave of patriotic fervour. Artist John Bergdahl drew upon this powerful imagery for his stirring design on the commemorative £2 coin, which features the famous slogan "Your Country Needs You."

The 2014 coin marked the centenary of the First World War and was the first in a five-year series tracing the journey from the war's outbreak to its armistice. It serves as a poignant reminder of one of Britain’s most significant historical moments, capturing both the spirit and the sombre reality of the rush to enlist that defined the early days of the conflict.

*Image is representative of the coin you will receive 

**Struck for general circulation and subsequently acquired by The Royal Mint from the secondary market.