This medallion cover features limited medallion and corresponding stamp from the 50th Anniversary of Australian Honours stamp issue.

This issue commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Australian honours system. More than 500,000 people have been recognised since it the system was introduced on 14 February 1975. Today, our honours showcase those amongst us who have had an impact, served and made a difference. The Australian honours system is special because anyone can be recognised and anyone can nominate someone for recognition in the Order of Australia. Some recipients are well known, but most are well known only in their community and amongst those that benefit from their service. Administered through the Governor-General's office since its inception, the honours system is independent and belongs to all of us. All Australians have a say in who is recognised. Honours help define, encourage and reinforce national aspirations and standards by identifying role models. We give honours to recognise, celebrate and say thank you to those who make a difference in the community.

Since 1975 the Australian honours system has expanded to include meritorious awards and military decorations for gallantry, distinguished and conspicuous service, as well as operational and service medals. The recognition the general public is most familiar with are those of the Order of Australia, comprising the AC (Companion of the Order), the AO (Officer of the Order), AM (Member of the Order) and the OAM (Medal of the Order). The stamps in this issue represent the three categories of the original awards of the Australian honours system. They include the Order of Australia, represented by the Companion of the Order of Austalia (AC); the Australian Bravery Decorations, represented by the Cross of Valour (CV); and the National Medal. Through this striking issue, Australia Post acknowledges inspirational Australians recognised in our honours system and how we, as a nation, honour them. Stuart Devlin AO CM designed the medals for the founding awards of the Australian honours system in 1975: the Order of Australia, the Australian Bravery Decorations and the National Medal. He also designed Australia's first decimal coins.