2017 20c Uncirculated Coin – 75th Anniversary of the Sinking of the SS Vyner Brooke

The SS Vyner Brooke was tragically sunk on 14 February 1942 during World War II, as it evacuated civilians and nurses from Singapore amidst the Japanese invasion. Among those aboard were 65 Australian nurses, many of whom lost their lives either in the sinking or the horrific Bangka Island massacre that followed. The 2017 20c Uncirculated Coin honours the 75th anniversary of this solemn event, paying tribute to the bravery, compassion, and sacrifice of those who served.

Struck by the Royal Australian Mint, this commemorative coin stands as a powerful reminder of the courage displayed in the face of unimaginable adversity, particularly by the members of the Australian Army Nursing Service.

Coin Features:
– Denomination: 20 cents
– Year of Issue: 2017
– Quality: Uncirculated
– Metal Composition: Cupro-nickel
– Diameter: 28.52 mm
– Mass: 11.30 g
– Obverse: Effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley
– Reverse: Artistic representation of a ship on turbulent waters with a cross in remembrance, accompanied by the inscriptions: “75th Anniversary – Sinking of the SS Vyner Brooke”
– Packaging: Presented on an official Royal Australian Mint collector card featuring historical context and tribute imagery

This coin is a moving tribute to the selflessness and strength of those who served under the harshest of wartime conditions and ensures their story is never forgotten.