This evocative collection honours the courage, resilience and evolving roles of Australians during 1941, a year defined by conflict abroad and transformation at home.
Fighting around the Mediterranean - on the sea, in the air and on the land - characterised the experiences of Australian forces. Australians served in campaigns across North Africa and the Middle East, and in Greece and Crete.
On the home front, the year also marked a significant turning point with the establishment of women's services, which expanded rapidly to include increasingly technical roles and challenged long-held assumptions about women's contributions in wartime.
The three coloured 20-cent coins in this set each represent a key theme: North Africa and the Middle East; Greece and Crete; and the formation of the Women's Services in Australia. Together, they commemorate stories of Australian bravery against a determined foe at a time when the outcome of the war was uncertain.
Each coin features coloured detailing inspired by the ribbon designs of campaign and service medals, providing a visual link to the honours awarded to those who served.
The set will be available in both silver proof and uncirculated quality. The uncirculated coins will also be offered individually in carded formats, allowing collectors and history enthusiasts to engage with each story in its own right. Australian War Memorial Historian Dr Thomas Rogers said 1941 was a pivotal year for Australia's war efforts.
"During 1941, Australian forces fought across the Mediterranean, North Africa and the Middle East, including in the British defence of Greece. The Greek campaign ended in failure, but the decision to aid an invaded country foreshadowed the later gargantuan effort made by the Allies to rid Europe of fascism.
"A milestone of 1941 was the establishment of women's services alongside the air force, navy and army, in which more than 66,000 Australian women ultimately volunteered for service during the war."
Royal Australian Mint Chief Executive Officer Emily Martin said the release highlighted the importance of capturing history on currency.
"Coins are enduring storytellers. By preserving moments such as those experienced in 1941, we create tangible connections to our past. These pieces remind us of our shared history and help to expand the minds of future generations, while encouraging reflection on the sacrifices and achievements that have shaped our nation."
This release continues the Mint's commitment to honouring Australia's military history and recognising the individuals and collective efforts that defined a generation.
Registration for the ballot is open now. The 1941: Service Amid Strife - Australia in the Second World War three-coin set is available to purchase from 8.30am on Tuesday, from the Royal Australian Mint and authorised distributors.
