The Rare Piece of WWII History Few People Know About…
As we approach the 80th anniversary of D-Day in June 2024, enthusiasts and collectors alike are eagerly seeking out military commemoratives from the era.
Amidst the rush, there exists a rare gem that only a select few are aware of, let alone possess.
It is the Hawaii Overprint Emergency Banknote issued between 1942-1944, and The Westminster Collection have a handful available today.
Read on to learn the fascinating story, what makes them so scarce, and how you can secure one.
USA – World War Two
During the tumultuous years of World War II, the United States government found itself in a precarious position following the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor.
With deep concerns looming over the possibility of a full-scale invasion of Hawaii by Japan, urgent measures were needed to safeguard the American economy from potential exploitation.
To counter this threat, the US government took swift action, issuing emergency banknotes specifically for use in Hawaii. These $1 Silver certificates bore distinct markings, featuring a brown seal and prominent “HAWAII” overprints on both the front and back.
This unique design served a crucial purpose: in the event the notes were seized by enemy forces, they could be repudiated, rendering them worthless thus spoiling attempts at economic sabotage.
A Rare Piece of Military History
Issued only for two years between 1942 and 1944, these emergency banknotes are exceptionally rare, with very few surviving examples still in existence today.
Their scarcity means they rarely make appearances on the secondary market, making them highly sought-after among collectors and historians alike.
Less than 25 Available
Here at The Westminster Collection, we have managed to secure a limited number of these extraordinary artefacts.
In fact, there are less than 25 available for collectors in the UK, travelling all the way over from the States.
This represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of history that encapsulates the resilience and ingenuity of a nation during one of its darkest hours.
How to Secure Yours…
These WWII emergency banknotes offer a tangible connection to the past, serving as a poignant reminder of the unwavering spirit that prevailed during a time of global upheaval.
Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of this remarkable history.
Blazing Trails: NEW 50p Coins released to honour the history of Britain’s Fire Service
200 years ago, Britain’s First Municipal Fire Service was established following the Great Fire of Edinburgh in 1824. And to share the story of two centuries of bravery and innovation in firefighting, FIVE BRAND NEW 50p coins have been authorised for release by His Majesty the King.
The History of the Fire Service 50p Coin Set
Watch below to find out more about the 50ps that are sure to blaze their own trail…
View the coins below and all the information you’ll need to order your favourites.
ONLY 750 AUTHORISED: The History of the Fire Service BU Colour 50p Set
The Brilliant Uncirculated Colour specification is fast becoming a collector favourite – and today you can become one of JUST 750 collectors in the world to own the Fire Engine 50ps struck to this popular specification.
Click here to own the BU Colour 50p Set >>
JUST £37.50: Own ALL FIVE Fire Engine 50ps Now
Or you can opt to secure ALL FIVE BRAND NEW 50p coins in Brilliant Uncirculated quality for JUST £37.50. But considering the popularity of recent UK NHS 50p and RNLI 50p releases – which also honour our nation’s unsung heroes – these will be in high demand.
Click here to secure the BU 50p Set for JUST £37.50 (+p&p) >>
The Most Detailed Specification – The Fire Engines Silver Proof 50p Set
Struck from Sterling Silver and hand-polished to a Proof finish with a painstaking colour application, this detailed specification brings each design to life. A strict worldwide edition limit of ONLY 500 has been set, so demand will outweigh availability.
Click here to reserve your Silver Proof 50p Set while stocks last >>
NEW UK 50p – Add a touch of Harry Potter Magic to your collection.
The wizarding world has once again cast its enchanting spell over us with the release of a brand-new UK 50p coin by The Royal Mint. This isn’t just any coin, it’s a tribute to the magical adventures of Harry, Ron, and Hermione, and a celebration of the unbreakable bonds of friendship that define the beloved series.
Click on the points in the interactive image below to find out more about this brand new 50p coin range.
A Tribute to Friendship and Adventure
The Harry Potter series has captivated the hearts of millions around the globe, not just for its tales of magic and mystery, but for its powerful themes of friendship, loyalty, and courage. This has been masterfully captured on our UK coinage with one of the most iconic moments from the series—the challenge of the Winged Keys. This 50p coin commemorates the scene where our heroic trio, aboard broomsticks, navigate through a flock of winged keys to catch the one that will unlock the next step in their quest to thwart Lord Voldemort’s return to power.
A Masterpiece Remastered
Designed and remastered by Bella Biggs, a talented product designer at The Royal Mint, the coin features a stylised illustration of Harry Potter demonstrating his flying prowess as he attempts to catch a winged key. This design not only showcases the excitement and dynamic action of the series but also pays homage to the theme of friendship that runs throughout Harry’s journey.
A Collectible with a Twist
Available in various editions, including gold Proof, silver Proof, and Brilliant Uncirculated editions—with the silver Proof version featuring stunning colour printing—this coin is a must-have for anyone looking to add a touch of magic to their collection. In an exciting twist, the Silver Proof 50p edition limit has been significantly reduced by almost 50% compared to the previous Harry Potter 50p coin, making it a rare and valuable find for collectors and fans alike.
Why You Need This Coin in Your Collection
This coin not only celebrates one of the most thrilling scenes from the Harry Potter series but also encapsulates the spirit of adventure and the enduring power of friendship. With its exquisite design and limited availability, the Harry Potter 50p coin is sure to be a treasured item in your collection for years to come.
