Perth Mint, Australia. Latest Gold and Silver Proof Coins Remember the End of World War II

Australian armed forces entered the conflict in September 1939, and just two decades after the official end of what had been known as the Great War in Europe. With Germany’s invasion of Poland in September 1939, the capital cities in Europe were once again in deadly conflict. The British government had sent an ultimatum to Berlin that unless they received an undertaking the Third Reich were prepared to withdraw their forces immediately, a state of war would exist between the two countries. In a radio address to the British nation and Empire, Prime Neville Chamberlain set forth to explain why the country was involved another war. He told the nation that no such undertaking had been received from Berlin and as such, the two countries were now at war.  

As a consequence of Great Britain declaring war against the Third Reich, Australia officially entered World War II on the 3^rd September 1939, mirroring the UK's declaration of war. For the next six years, Australian soldiers served in all branches of their armed forces and essentially kept the home fires burning while playing a vital role in achieving a hard-won peace which was finally achieved in Europe in May 1945. A second front in the Pacific with allied forces battling the Japanese Empire was of particular importance to Australia and New Zealand who diligently and bravely defended their countries against possible invasion by Japan.

Ultimately, victory was also achieved in September 1945 shortly after the detonation of atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. News of this hard-fought-for victory was received in Europe, the United States and Australia with spontaneous celebrations in the streets, parties and outright expressions of both exuberance and relief that the victorious fighting men would soon be coming home. The cost to countries, families and individuals was immense but since the conclusion of this conflict, Europe was able to live in peace until 2022, the longest-ever spans of time in the continent’s history.

Designed by Sean Rogers, his work is inspired by the Winged Victory copper statue created by sculptor Gilbert Doble for the Marrickville Soldier’s memorial unveiled after the First World War and is now on display in Australia’s War Memorial in Canberra. The depiction of Nike, the winged goddess of victory is shown with a sword in her right hand symbolising strength and in her left hand, a garland wreath signifying a readiness for peace. A ribbon banner is superimposed over the lower half of the design with lettering which reads 80 YEARS END OF WWII 2025. The obverse of both gold and silver proof strikes includes the Commonwealth effigy of HM King Charles III created by engraver Dan Thorne. The legend above the King’s likeness reads CHARLES III AUSTRALIA along with the specifications and denomination 1 oz 9999 Au 100 DOLLARS (gold) and 1 oz 9999 Ag 1 DOLLAR (silver) shown below the King’s likeness. 

Available from the 1^st April, the gold and silver coins are presented in a classic black display case with a clear acrylic lid and outer protective box accompanied with a certificate of authenticity. For additional information, please visit the e-webshop of the Perth Mint.