A 1915 penny will be used in the official coin toss for this Saturday’s ANZAC Round clash against Hawthorn, in recognition of the centenary of the Gallipoli landing in World War I.

The grandsons of past Port Adelaide player and Distinguished Conduct Medallist Tom McDonald will have the honour of tossing the historic coin on Saturday night.

Craig, 60 and Les, 54 McDonald will represent their veteran grandfather under lights alongside Port Adelaide captain Travis Boak and Hawthorn captain Luke Hodge.

Boak said it will be an honour to stand with the McDonald family on the field, highlighting the importance of paying respect to those who have fought for our country.

“For Port Adelaide it is a great honour to be part of ANZAC Day celebrations, particularly this year for the ANZAC 100 years,” Boak said.

“The real focus of the day is about remembering those who fought for our country – and those who gave their lives.

“As AFL players we’re very fortunate to play our part on a special day to honour them.”

Tom McDonald’s connection with Port Adelaide runs deep, having played over 40 games as a wingman for the club in the 1920s. He represented the state on the football field in the South Australian team, while also establishing himself as an accomplished athlete by competing as an elite runner in the Bay Sheffield race.

He received a Distinguished Conduct Medal (a high-level military bravery award) while serving in France during WWI.

Port Adelaide sourced the rare 1915 penny from Adelaide coin dealer Grant Morton specifically for the game as part of Saturday’s commemorative proceedings to honour the significance of the ANZAC Centenary.