Guardians of the Normandy Sky

Click here to view the brand new 80th anniversary of D-Day coin range featured in this video

The Supermarine Spitfire MK IX carved its name in history with its pivotal role during the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944. This aircraft was a marvel of British engineering, an advanced version of the famed Spitfire series, designed to match the German Focke-Wulf FW 190.

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This design of Spitfire MK IX features on the brand new D-Day 80th Anniversary coins

As the Allies undertook the monumental task of liberating Nazi-occupied Europe, the Spitfire MK IX soared above the beaches of Normandy, safeguarding the troops against enemy air attacks. Its iconic Merlin engine provided the power needed to dominate the skies at high altitudes, where dogfights with German fighters were a frequent challenge.

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Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX, 611 Squadron.

The Spitfire’s duties were not limited to aerial combat. The MK IX Spitfires were crucial in reconnaissance, capturing images of the battlefield that informed Allied strategy. They also strafed and bombed German defensive positions, disrupting enemy fortifications and support.

The presence of the Spitfire MK IX over the Normandy beaches was a reassurance to the Allied soldiers below and a testament to the aircraft’s enduring legacy. On D-Day, it was more than a fighter, it was a protector, an eye in the sky, and a symbol of hope.

Click here to view the other key elements featured on the D-Day 80th Anniversary coin design.

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HMS Warspite: The First Battleship to Open Fire on D-Day

Click here to view the brand new 80th anniversary of D-Day coin range featured in this video.

As the dawn of June 6, 1944, broke over the Normandy coast, a monumental chapter in world history was being written. D-Day, the largest seaborne invasion in history, was about to commence. Included among the vast Allied fleet assembled for Operation Overlord, the HMS Warspite, an experienced British battleship. It was on this historic day that the Warspite became the first battleship to open fire, marking the beginning of a crucial chapter in the liberation of Europe.

The Pride of the Royal Navy: HMS Warspite

HMS Warspite, a Queen Elizabeth-class battleship, was launched in 1913, she had already earned her place in naval legend through her service in both World Wars. By the time of D-Day, Warspite had been in service for over three decades, witnessing the evolution of naval warfare from the dreadnought era to the age of aircraft carriers and submarines.

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This design of HMS Warspite features on the brand new D-Day 80th Anniversary coins

Warspite’s Role on D-Day

As part of the bombardment force during the Normandy invasion, Warspite had a crucial role. She was tasked with softening the German defenses along the coast to aid the landing of Allied troops on the beaches. Positioned off Sword Beach, one of the five designated landing areas, Warspite’s guns were ideally situated to provide critical support.

The First Shot

In the early hours of June 6, Warspite made history as the first battleship to open fire against German fortifications. This act signified more than just a military manoeuvre; it was a symbol of the Allied determination to reclaim Europe from the clutches of Nazi occupation.

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HMS Warspite shelling German positions

Precision Bombardment

Equipped with eight 15-inch guns, Warspite was a formidable force. Her firepower was not just about brute force; it was precise. Warspite’s gunnery crew, seasoned by years of conflict, were experts at long-range bombardment. Their accuracy was critical in minimising collateral damage and ensuring the success of the landings. Despite being one of the oldest battleships in service, Warspite proved that she was still a force to be reckoned with.

Click here to view the other key elements featured on the D-Day 80th Anniversary coin design.

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The Sherman Firefly Tank: Unleashing Fury on D-Day and Beyond

Click here to view the brand new 80th anniversary of D-Day coin range featured in this video.

From the hedgerows of Normandy, France, to the hills of Italy, the Sherman Firefly stood out among Allied tanks as a fearsome adversary for the German forces during World War II. This modified version of the Sherman Tank played a crucial role in the historic D-Day invasion and beyond.

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This design of the Sherman Firefly Tank features on the brand new D-Day 80th Anniversary coins

The Challenge:

The original M4 Sherman tank faced limitations with its basic 75 mm gun against formidable German tanks like the Panther and Tiger. The solution came in the form of the 17 Pounder, a powerful British gun capable of taking down any known German armour at the time. The challenge was to integrate this formidable weapon onto the Sherman Tank. Despite initial opposition from the Ministry of Supply, by October-November 1943, the concept gained momentum, receiving the highest priority from Winston Churchill in preparation for D-Day.

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Left: A Sherman Firefly crew of 1st Northamptonshire Yeomanry loading 17 pounder ammunition Right: A Sherman Firefly during the Battle of the Bulge, 1944

D-Day Deployment:  

As the crucial day approached, the Sherman Firefly became a secret weapon in the Allied arsenal. Deployed just in time for D-Day, it filled the ranks of the 21st Army Group’s Armoured Brigades. Allied intelligence had not anticipated the presence of formidable German tanks, making the Sherman Firefly a critical asset in facing unexpected threats.

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A Sherman Firefly coming ashore from an LST (Landing Ship Tank), Sword Beach, 7 June 1944.

On the Battlefield:

The Sherman Firefly quickly gained a reputation as a game-changer. In the chaos of D-Day, the Sherman Firefly’s firepower proved decisive in repelling German attacks and securing vital beachheads.

The Sherman Firefly’s effectiveness became legendary, with notable instances like Lt. G. K. Henry’s five Panthers knocked out in rapid succession with only six rounds. Even the feared German tank ace Michael Wittman is believed to have fallen to a Canadian Sherman Firefly.

Legacy:

Over 1,900 Sherman Fireflies served in various Allied divisions, making significant contributions in Normandy, Italy, and beyond. Post-war, Sherman Fireflies found new homes in countries like Italy, Lebanon, Argentina, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

Click here to view the other key elements featured on the D-Day 80th Anniversary coin design.

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We strive for historical accuracy in our content. If you notice any inaccuracies, please let us know. Your feedback will help us maintain and improve the integrity and accuracy of our information.