LSCSO Matt Doyle shows off the HMAS SYDNEY II coin, with him is one of HMAS SYDNEY II crew Mr Alaistair Templeton.

HMAS Sydney IV provided the setting for the launch of a $1 silver proof coin commemorating HMAS Sydney II.

The ceremony was performed by Senator Eric Abetz, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence in the presence of the MC, RADM John Lord, the Controller of the Royal Australian Mint, Graeme Moffatt and CO of HMAS SYDNEY IV, CMDR Simon Cullen.
On November 19, 1941, HMAS SYDNEY II sank after a short exchange with the German raider Kormoran off the coast of Western Australia, taking with her all 645 crew members leading to the heaviest loss of life suffered by the RAN in a single engagement.

The Royal Australian Mint is paying tribute to the lives lost in this tragic event, helping to keep the memory alive with the production of the $1 fine silver proof coin dedicated to HMAS SYDNEY II.

A proof finish signifies the coin's mirror like background contrasted by a raised frosted design and that every coin was struck individually.

There was no location more appropriate for the launch of the HMAS SYDNEY II coin than aboard her successor, SYDNEY IV.

The $1 HMAS SYDNEY II fine silver proof coin.

Returning from service as part of the international force in East Timor just in time for Christmas, SYDNEY IV had provided operational support for the land based force, including logistics, evacuation facilities and humanitarian assistance to the local community.

Ship's company morale is very high as positive results of humanitarian assistance and the benefits to the people of East Timor are realised.

Every guest at the launch received an aluminium bronze version of the HMAS SYDNEY II coin, presented in specially printed packaging with the words "The HMAS SYDNEY II coin launch May 2000."

Each coin is packaged inside a presentation case and an illustrated outer box appropriate to the theme, as well as a numbered certificate of authenticity.

To obtain the coin commemorating HMAS SYDNEY II please contact the Royal Australian Mint on 1300 652 020.

By Jerzy Farynski