In 1914, escalating tensions in Southeast Europe erupted into a conflict that quickly spread across Europe and eventually engulfed the world. This was a new kind of warfare, fought on an industrial scale by land, sea, and air. Traditional tactics were rendered obsolete by the advent of advanced technology and the immense scale of combat.

To bolster its ranks for this unprecedented war, the British Army launched a massive recruitment drive. One innovative approach was the formation of Pals Battalions, where men were encouraged to enlist alongside friends, neighbors, and colleagues. This allowed groups of volunteers to serve together, fostering camaraderie and boosting enlistment numbers. These battalions became a unique feature of Britain’s wartime effort, symbolizing both the patriotic spirit and the personal sacrifices made during the First World War.

*Image is representative of the coin you will receive 

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