Scotland has been a home to many influential women throughout the years, and one of them is Flora Murray. Born on May 8, 1869, Flora Murray made significant contributions to both medicine and women’s rights in the early 20th century. Her work paved the way for future generations of women in the field of medicine and had a lasting impact on society. Read along to learn about a special way that the numismatic industry honored her.
Flora Murray was a pioneering doctor who championed women’s health and made remarkable advancements in the field of medicine. Her dedication to her profession was evident in her pursuit of further education and training at a time when few women had the opportunity to do so. One of her key contributions was her co-founding of the Women’s Hospital Corps during World War I. These hospitals were established to provide medical aid to the war victims, but what set them apart was that they were staffed entirely by women.
Flora Murray’s impact extended beyond her medical work. She was an advocate for women’s rights and was actively involved in the suffrage movement. Alongside her medical career, she fought for the rights of women to have equal access to education and opportunities.
In 2022 the Bank of Scotland decided to introduce a banknote honoring her. It entered circulation on May 9, 2022. This date neighbors her birthday which took place on May 8. Scotland 100 Pounds Sterling, 2021. This is a commemorative banknote issued by the Bank of Scotland to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the life of Murray. It is a green polymer banknote. Its obverse side features Sir Walter Scott, thistles, and the Bank of Scotland building. Its reverse side shows Dr. Flora Murray, female stretcher bearers with soldiers outside Covent Garden Hospital, and Dr. Flora in action below the Bank of Scotland building.
Sources:
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-60983463
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flora_Murray
https://www.lloydsbankinggroup.com/insights/who-was-flora-murray.html