Posts Tagged ‘D-Day’
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.
Explore the design of the 80th Anniversary D-Day Coins
This year marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day, a day which many historians say turned the tide of World War 2. To honour the courage and sacrifice of the thousands of men and women involved, a special coin range has been released. The main coin design showcases three powerful features: the Spitfire Mk IX, HMS Warspite, and the Sherman Firefly Tank.
Click here to view the brand new coin range commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
The Sherman Firefly Tank, an upgraded version of the standard Sherman, was a critical component of the Allied armoured divisions landing on the beaches of Normandy.
Explore more about the Sherman Firefly – Watch Our Sherman Firefly Video Now
A veteran battleship with a vast history, HMS Warspite steamed into the waters off Normandy to unleash its formidable firepower. During the Normandy landings Warspite was the very first ship to fire upon German coastal defences with its heavy artillery.
Discover HMS Warspite’s Remarkable Story – Watch the HMS Warspite Video Now
The Spitfire MK IX, a legendary aircraft synonymous with the Royal Air Force, played a crucial role in the Normandy landings. Designed for speed and agility, the Spitfire provided essential air cover during Operation Overlord.
Uncover more about the role of the Spitfire MK IX – Watch the Spitfire MK IX Video Now
Map of Normandy/France:
The background design features a detailed map of Normandy, with a special focus on the historic beaches of Gold and Sword. These beaches witnessed some of the fiercest fighting on D-Day, as Allied forces sought to establish a crucial foothold on continental Europe. The map design highlights the strategic significance of these locations in the overall success of the Normandy landings.
The Spitfire Mk IX, HMS Warspite, and the Sherman Firefly Tank, along with the map of Normandy, come together on this coin design to tell a powerful story of unity, courage, and the triumph of good over evil.
Click here to view the brand new coin range commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.