2002 $5 Coin - 60th Anniversary of the Battle of Sunda Strait

2002 $5 Battle of Sunda Strait 60th Anniversary – Bi-Metal Uncirculated Coin

Commemorate a pivotal moment of naval history and international bravery with this 2002 $5 bi-metal coin. Struck by the Royal Australian Mint, this release marks the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Sunda Strait (1942), a fierce World War II engagement where the crews of the HMAS Perth (I) and the USS Houston (CA-30) fought gallantly against overwhelming odds.

This unique 24-sided coin serves as a lasting tribute to the bond between the Australian and United States navies and the enduring legacy of the sailors who served.

Key Features and Specifications

• Year of Issue: 2002
• Theme: 60th Anniversary of the Battle of Sunda Strait
• Composition: Bi-metallic (Aluminium-Bronze centre with a Stainless Steel outer ring).
• Shape: Distinctive Icositetragon (24-sided).
• Reverse Design: Features the ship’s bell of the USS Houston at the centre, surrounded by the inscriptions "Battle of Sunda Strait", "1942 USS Houston HMAS Perth 2002", and the $5 denomination.
• Obverse Design: Features the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
• Mintage: A strictly limited production run distributed across two official covers.
• Legal Tender: Official Australian $5 coin.

Naval Heritage and Rarity

The Battle of Sunda Strait remains one of the most storied actions in Australian and American naval history. After the Battle of the Java Sea, both ships were intercepted by a large Japanese invasion fleet. Despite running low on ammunition, they engaged the enemy until both were sunk in the early hours of March 1, 1942. This coin, with its industrial bi-metal composition and unusual shape, was specifically designed to reflect the strength and resilience of these legendary vessels.

Condition and Presentation

This coin is presented in its original official Royal Australian Mint / Australia Post commemorative folder.

Condition Note:

• Uncirculated Quality: The coin is in excellent uncirculated condition, retaining its original mint lustre and sharp design features.
• Packaging: The coin is housed in its original themed presentation cover.
• Shelf Wear: Please note that the outer cover may show some minor wear or scuffing consistent with its age and handling since 2002.