2017 50 cent The Battle of BULLECOURT The Western Front 1917-2017 carded coin

This coin pays tribute to soldiers who faced dangers and took risks in Bullecourt during the First World War. This coin will strike a chord with military enthusiasts, history buffs and coin collectors, with its poignant reminder of the dedication of service people in such battles.

Australian troops of the 4th and 12th Brigades launched attacks at Bullecourt (then occupied by Germany)who served in the costly and unsuccessful attack in Passchendaele. We remember the sacrifices made and the spirit of the Australian soldiers, exhausted and deadlocked as they were. This coin is a part of the Western Front Series and is a popular piece for collectors and military enthusiasts.

Australia assaulted the German army's formidable Hindenburg Line defences between the villages of Bullecourt and Riencourt on 11 April. The infantry crossed no man's land completely unsupported but achieved a tenuous toehold in the German position.

Subjected to fierce counterattacks, the Australians were ultimately forced to withdraw, having lost more than 3000 casualties. Of these, 1170 became surrounded in the maze of enemy trenches and were forced to surrender to German troops.

Efforts to capture Bullecourt continued throughout the following weeks and with its eventual capture came the loss of further 7482 Australian casualties. This  fighting had been costly and bitter, but in the end the area was found to be of little strategic importance.

This coin is the third release in the six-coin Western Front Series.

The coin's reverse features a depiction of soldiers in the trenches.

Each coin is packaged in a display card with historical information about the Battle of Bullecourt.

The coins obverse features Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II effigy sculpted by Ian Rank-Broadley.

Each coin is issued as Australian Legal Tender.

• Denomination :  50c
• Quality :            Uncirculated
• Metal :              Cupro Nickel
• Weight :            15.55 gms
• Diameter :         31.51 mm
• Mintage :           15,000
• Certificate of Authenticity : Royal Australian Mint Official Packaging.

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.