2017-06-08 Thu

Pobjoy Mint released new coloured coins featuring a red poppy called ‘Lest We Forget’ to commemorate the 35th Anniversary of the Falklands Liberation. Many brave soldiers had offered their lives to safeguard the sovereignty of their country.

The reverse depicts a silhouette of a soldier standing on the grave of a fallen soldier. The poppy in multiple shades of red is a symbol of remembrance. The obverse of the 1 Crown face-value coin features the Pobjoy exclusive Effigy of Queen Elizabeth II. The Proof Sterling Silver version has a mintage limit of 2,000 while the copper-nickel version has a mintage limit of 10,000.

Britain and Argentina wanted to take over Falkland Islands from a long time. On 19th March 1982, 50 Argentines landed on South Georgia Island and announced victory. President Galtieri of Argentina gave orders to attack Falkland Islands and the dreaded war began on 2nd April. Margaret Thatcher of British Government sent a large task force to recapture the Islands. Prince Andrew of the Royal blood fought in the battle as well. This Campaign was one of the most historic events in post-war England that gave Thatcher her title “iron lady”. The British forces fought 8,000 miles away from home and in inhuman conditions.

The 74-day conflict saw the loss of almost 1000 people. The war ended on 14th June when Britain emerged as victorious. Veterans, friends and families of brave hearts who lost their lives keep visiting the islands to pay their tribute.