CGEF worker's token with Lockwood key attached

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Commonwealth Government Explosives Factory

c. 1940

Overview

Lightweight, silver coloured metal worker's token issued by the Commonwealth Government Explosives Factory in Maribyrnong, Victoria.
It is circular in shape with a small hole at the top through which a brass key is attached. It has the numbers '102' and '4' stamped on the front. The back surface has no markings. The disc is mishapen and well worn.
The key is made by Lockwood and features the number '4' stamped on one side and the words 'Lockwood Aust' on the other.

Part of a larger grouping relating to the Commonwealth Government Explosives Factory in Maribyrnong, Victoria.

Historical information

The Commonwealth Government Explosives Factory was the key installation in a network of defence factories which made Maribyrnong the Arsenal of Australia from 1910 to the 1980s.
The Explosives Factory was critical in the establishment of defence industries in Australia, making it one of the most important outcomes of Federation effecting defence and foreign policy in the 20th century.
The EFM was the first Government explosives factory (and only one until the Second World War) manufacturing Cordite for ammunition shells and other propellants and explosives.
The Defence site of 315 acres housed up to 500 structures in its heyday. The Munitions Supply Laboratories (M.S.L.) was another of the important facilitires on the site.
Local and foreign dignitaries were taken on tours of the site to show off Australia's defence capabilities.

Details

Registration number

cwa-org-119-RoW00111

Item type

Collectibles

Ephemera

Metal

Themes

Social History
War and Conflict
War and Conflict > World War 2

Material

Aluminium

Metal