The Cowra Breakout 80th Anniversary Commemorative Coin
The Cowra Breakout 80th Anniversary Commemorative Coin
A unique, gold-layered commemorative coin celebrating the Cowra Breakout, limited to 599 pieces worldwide. Featuring finely etched details, it's a must-have for military enthusiasts and collectors.
The Cowra Breakout 80th Anniversary Commemorative Coin from the Bradford Exchange features:
- 65mm gold-layered coin with detailed etching.
- Only 599 worldwide, a collector’s prized treasure.
- Commemorates Australia's only WWII land battle.
S&H: $19.99
Available in 5 instalments of $69.99
Comes with our famous 365-day guarantee
During World War II, the town of Cowra in east-central New South Wales became the site of one of Australia's largest P.O.W. camps, opening in 1941. The camp was circular in design and divided into four compounds: A, B, C, and D. Compound D housed Japanese officers, and Korean and Chinese labourers conscripted by the Japanese, while Compound B was home to Japanese enlisted men. By August 1944, the camp held over 1,100 Japanese soldiers and naval aviators, many of whom were suffering immense psychological and emotional distress from the dishonour of being prisoners. The prisoners' shame was so profound that many adopted aliases to avoid the stigma of capture. This led to the infamous Cowra Breakout, where over 900 prisoners attempted a desperate escape on the night of 5 August 1944, resulting in significant loss of life on both sides.
The Bradford Exchange proudly presents a meticulously crafted commemorative coin to honour this historical event. This generously sized Proof quality coin, measuring an impressive 65mm in diameter, is richly layered in 24-carat gold. The coin features finely etched details depicting Private O Treacy on guard and a Japanese prisoner, along with the battered bugle that signalled the start of the breakout. Above them, vibrant full-colour blossoms of peace are depicted, and between them lies a formal Japanese poem (tanka) written by prisoner Shiohibe Makushita, who perished during the escape. Limited to a worldwide edition of 599, this unique commemorative piece is a tribute to the bravery and resilience of those involved in the Cowra Breakout, making it a cherished addition for military enthusiasts and collectors alike. Order now!
Features
The Cowra Breakout 80th Anniversary Commemorative Coin from the Bradford Exchange features:
- Features finely etched images of an Australian guard, Japanese prisoner, and the bugle used during the Cowra Breakout.
- Displays full-colour cherry blossoms symbolising peace, alongside a reflective tanka poem written by a prisoner.
- Portrait of His Majesty King Charles III is prominently featured on the obverse side.
- Limited mintage of only 599 coins worldwide, ensuring exclusivity and collectability.
- Generous diameter of 65mm, making it an impressive display piece.
- High-quality Proof finish, the highest standard of coin striking for collectors.
- Accented with a rich layer of 24-carat gold, adding to its elegance and value.
- Comes with a numbered Certificate of Authenticity, verifying its provenance and uniqueness.