After a morning of commemoration for the fallen and those who fought, plenty of punters took shelter from the rain with a beer in hand and cash in the other.

Two-up originated in the trenches of Gallipoli, hence it’s association with Anzac Day. The game is only legal on certain commemorative days of the year, according to NSW legislation.

According to the official description of two-up, as found on the Australian War Memorial website, traditionally the head side of each penny was polished and the tail side left dark, so it was obvious to anyone around the ring whether the coin fell as head or tail.

However in Queanbeyan, the technique has altered, with the tail side of the coin now marked with a white cross.

Every colour of currency was waved above heads as the boxer, the man running the betting, matched up bets across the ring.

The crowds roared as the coins were thrown high in the air, before falling onto the mat below.

Jordan Hall, 26, of Jerrabomberra, took part in the gamble at the Jerrambomberra Hotel.

After joining the Navy at age 19, Mr Hall worked in Melbourne and then Darwin on patrol boats. He is now based in Sydney. Anzac Day holds a special significance for Mr Hall, not only for his service but for the service of his family and friends.

“Being an Australian, you’ve got to do your part,” Mr Hall said.

He said Anzac Day was a good chance to look back, and it was important to remember what the day was about.

“It’s about mateship, a bit of larrikinism and having a beer with your mates.

“It’s about remembering those who fought for us, so we can have this.”

With James Hall