2012 Three-Coin Uncirculated Set: Shores Under Siege – Bombing of Australia 1942

2012 Three-Coin Uncirculated Set: Shores Under Siege – Bombing of Australia 1942

As we approached the 70th anniversary of these events in 2012, the Royal Australian Mint released this three-coin uncirculated set commemorating a crucial but often overlooked period of Australia’s history: the Bombing of Australia (1942–1943).

Between February 1942 and November 1943, during the Pacific theatre of World War II, the Australian mainland, domestic airspace, offshore islands, and coastal shipping were attacked at least 97 times by Japanese forces. Remembering these events ensures our nation never forgets the horrors of war, our nation’s ability to rally together in times of need, and the value of peace.

Key Features and Specifications

• Theme: Commemorates the 70th Anniversary of the Bombing of Australia (1942–1943) during World War II.
• Set Composition: A three-coin set (Two 20c coins and One 50c coin), struck in Cu/Ni (Copper-Nickel).
• Unique Designs: The set depicts images of the attacks and the civilian response:
  • 50c Coin: Illustrates the many bombing and strafing sites hit in 1942, with dramatic impact zones looming over a map of Australia.
  • 20c Coin (Design 1): Features a dramatic silhouette of a lone sentry standing on a gun turret, facing out to sea.
  • 20c Coin (Design 2): Features an air raid shelter with civilians awaiting entry.
• Quality: Struck to Uncirculated standard.
• Presentation: Supplied with three single coin-in-cards, all housed within an envelope designed to look like an old wartime telegraph.
• Collectibility: Military themes are always popular. This unusual combination of denominations will appeal to both 50 cent and 20 cent collectors.