Proof Quality 99.9% Pure Silver
The Perth Mint marks the historic discovery of HMAS Sydney II with this superb
commemorative coin struck from 1oz of 99.9% pure silver in proof quality.
Reverse Depicting HMAS Sydney II
The coin’s reverse depicts HMAS Sydney II, a 6,830 tons modified Leander class
cruiser with an illustrious battle record. The ship’s image is accompanied by the
inscription HMAS SYDNEY II 19 NOVEMBER 1941 ~ 16 MARCH 2008, which highlights the 67 years
she lay undiscovered on the seabed, and The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark.
Australian Legal Tender
Befitting HMAS Sydney II’s enormous historical and cultural significance, the
coin is issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965. The Ian
Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the 2008 year-date appear on the
coin’s obverse.
Extremely Limited Mintage
The Perth Mint will strike no more than 7,500 of these coins, of which just 5,000
will be released individually. The remaining 2,500 are available in a stunning Coin,
Medallion and Badge Set (see separate entry).
Presentation Display Case
Individual coins are housed in a blue display case and magnificently illustrated
shipper.
Numbered Certificate of Authenticity
Each coin is accompanied by a numbered Certificate of Authenticity.
Following a deadly engagement with the German raider HSK
Kormoran November 1941, the famous Royal Australian Navy cruiser HMAS Sydney
II was lost with 645 officers and crew in the Indian Ocean. Her fate proved baffling
until the Finding Sydney Foundation announced on 16 March 2008 that it had located the wreck
approximately 207km off the Western Australian coast.