HMAS Sydney II Commerative Coin
Posted on Nov 10, 2008 under australian decimal coins |I thought I’d start our Australian decimal coins category with a commemorative coin just issued by the Perth Mint Autralia.
To honour the discovery of the HMAS Sydney II wreck and to coincide with the 67th anniversary of its sinking, Perth Mint has released a 1oz 99.9% pure silver, proof coin.
This extremely limited coin (no more than 7,500 minted) has been issued as legal tender. The portrait of Queen Elizabeth II appears on the obverse. The reverse shows the honoured HMAS Sydney II in fine detail. The words “HMAS SYDNEY II 19 NOVEMBER 1941 - 16 MARCH 2008″ along with the mint mark “P” appear with the image. The dates represent the period the ship lay undiscovered.
HMAS Sydney II sank after a battle with the German ship HSK Kormoran on November 19, 1941. The battle represents Australia’s largest loss of life in a naval battle.
The discovery of the wreck of HMAS Sydney II was a significant step in Australia’s military history. Even more so, it was particularly personal one for the relatives of the 645 officers and crew who lost their lives when the ship sank.
Sydney had been on escort duties off the West Australian coast when it crossed paths with the disguised Kormoran. Neither ship made it through the ensuing battle.
The sinking of HMAS Sydney II was something that has perplexed many. Sydney was considered a superior battle ship and there was disbelief that it could be defeated by Kormoran. Further fueling suspicions of foul play, in an attempt to maintain the morale of the nation, the Royal Australian Navy and the Government supplied very little information regarding the sinking to the public.
Perth Mint Australia’s commemorative coin is a high quality tribute to the HMAS Sydney II and one that not only collectors are sure to treasure.
Image courtesty of Perth Mint Australia
