Royal Australian Mint 2002 bronze coin commemorating the Battle of the Sunda Strait with ship illustrations and text.

2002 Battle of Sunda Strait 1942 Proof Coin

$35.00
$35.00
Skip to product information
Royal Australian Mint 2002 bronze coin commemorating the Battle of the Sunda Strait with ship illustrations and text.
2002 Battle of Sunda Strait 1942 Proof Coin

2002 Battle of Sunda Strait 1942 Proof Coin

$35.00
$35.00
Taxes included. Shipping calculated at checkout.
In stock

Commemorate Allied naval courage with the 2002 $5 Battle of Sunda Strait proof coin from the Royal Australian Mint. This aluminium-bronze tribute honours the desperate stand of HMAS Perth and USS Houston against overwhelming Japanese forces.

Highlights:

  • Proof quality
  • Aluminium bronze, 28g
  • Numbered Certificate of Authenticity
  • Mintage of 15,000

Product overview

On 28 February 1942, HMAS Perth and USS Houston unexpectedly encountered a massive Japanese invasion fleet in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra.

Outnumbered by cruisers, destroyers, and torpedo boats, the Allied cruisers fought valiantly at close range until their ammunition was exhausted. Both vessels sank within 20 minutes, with heavy crew losses—only 368 of Houston's 1,065 and 328 of Perth's 681 survived to endure brutal POW camps, including the Burma Railway.

Struck to proof standards by the Royal Australian Mint, the reverse depicts the two doomed cruisers steaming into battle. Includes original case, shipper, and certificate, preserving this poignant tribute.

What's included

Item Details & Condition
Coin: Mint
Certificate of authenticity: Yes
Presentation case: Yes (Age-related discolouration / foxing)
Outer box: Yes (Excellent)
Coin capsule: Yes

Condition terms explained

We use a simple, consistent set of terms on each product page so you know exactly what to expect when your order arrives. These descriptions focus on honest visual inspection rather than formal grading.
Coin terms
  • Mint - The coin is in Mint, uncirculated condition, with no visible marks to the naked eye under standard lighting. It is supplied in its original capsule or protective packaging, as applicable.
  • Mint (Minor milk spots) - The coin is in Mint, uncirculated condition, but there are small, cloudy white spots on the surface, likely from the minting or planchetting process, a common feature of modern bullion and proof issues. These spots are cosmetic only and do not affect the coin’s metal content, purity, or authenticity.
  • Mint (Light toning) - The coin is in Mint, uncirculated condition, but shows light natural colour changes on the surface, such as pale gold, blue, or rainbow hues from normal ageing and storage. Many collectors view this gentle toning as part of the coin’s character rather than a defect, and it does not affect purity or authenticity.
Presentation case and outer box terms
  • Excellent - The presentation case, or outer box, is in immaculate condition, with only minimal signs of handling or storage, and is suitable for gifting or display.
  • Light scuffs - There are light, surface-level rub marks or slight colour wear from normal handling or sliding against other surfaces. The material is not deeply scratched or broken, and the case or box structure is unaffected.
  • Corner dings - One or more corners show small but clear indentations where the case or box has been knocked. The corner is slightly flattened or recessed, but the item remains fully functional and protective.
  • Minor creases - There are visible fold lines in the cardboard or paperboard where it has been bent, often appearing as a straight line on a lid or edge. These creases are cosmetic only and do not affect the box's ability to open, close, or protect the coin.
  • Age-related discolouration/foxing - The surface shows patchy, often whitish, yellowish, or grey areas that develop over time due to age, humidity, or breakdown of the covering material. This is common on older or velour-style cases and shippers and is cosmetic only; it does not affect the coin inside.

Specifications

Specification Details
Mint: Royal Australian Mint
Year: 2002
Metal: Aluminium bronze
Weight: Other (g)
Fineness (% purity): Not applicable
Denomination(s): 5 dollars
Maximum mintage: 15,000
Finish: Proof
Legal tender: Australia

You may also like