Pocket Treasures Coins & Collectables
2017 50 cent 75th Anniversary Sinking of the SS Vyner Brooke Coin on card
2017 50 cent 75th Anniversary Sinking of the SS Vyner Brooke Coin on card
In 2017, we mark the 75th Anniversary of the sinking of the SS Vyner Brooke and remember the devastating effects of the aftermath and the inspiring struggles for survival to follow.
Depicting design elements from the SS Vyner Brooke and the location of the attack, this 20c uncirculated coin will appeal to those who seek military themes non-combat in nature.
The sinking of the SS Vyner Brooke and Sister Vivian Bullwinkel's remarkable story of survival exemplify the spirit which Australian reflect on during moments of remembrance. As the Second World War gripped the Pacific, the SS Vyner Brooke was called to evacuate medical staff and wounded from Singapore. Stalked by Japanese aircraft for two days in February of 1942,m the SS Vyner Brooke was sunk in Banka Strait, east of Sumatra. Many of the passengers on board, although scattered, miraculously survived hours in the water to make it to Bank Island. Later forced off Radji Beach into the sea by a hostile patrol, Sister Bullwinkel was shot in the back along with 21 other women of the Australian Army Nursing Service. Having survived the bullet wound Bullwinkle later retreated into the jungle, nursing her own wounds and that of British soldier Private Kinsley.
The pair later surrendered themselves to a Prisoner of War Camp. Bullwinkel was interned as a prisoner of war until 1945.
This coin is a continuation of the Royal Australian Mint's Official Anzac Centenary Coin Program.
The coin's reverse features this historic event taking design elements from a likeness of the SS Vyner Brooke, the location of the attack, and other maritime designs.
Finished to the Royal Australian Mint's high quality uncirculated standard.
Mintage is extremely low at just 20,000.
The Coin’s obverse features Queen Elizabeth II effigy sculpted by Ian Rank-Broadley.
Presented on a full colour card.
Each coin is issued as Australian Legal Tender.
- Denomination : 20c
- Quality : Uncirculated
- Metal : Cupro Nickel
- Weight : 11.30 gms
- Diameter : 28.52 mm
- Mintage : 20,000
- Certificate of Authenticity : Royal Australian Mint Official Card
Please note: Item condition is as photographed. Item in photograph is what you will receive. Please review photographs carefully before purchasing as returns will not be accepted based on condition.