2016 - $20 - 1 oz. Pure Silver Coin – Second World War Battlefront: The Battle of Hong Kong

“…All ranks fought it out to the last and more cannot be asked of any man.” – The Honourable J.L. Ralston, speaking in the House of Commons.

Canada's first land combat of the Second World War began on December 8, 1941, when, mere hours after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Japanese launched an invasion on the British Crown Colony of Hong Kong. Outnumbered and less well equipped than the enemy, the odds were not in the Canadians' favour as they defended the peninsula, then the island itself. Over 550 of the 1,975 Canadians sent to Hong Kong never made it home; but during the 17 days of fierce fighting, they fought valiantly, even engaging in hand-to-hand combat with the enemy, as they defended Hong Kong to the very end. This fine silver coin pays tribute to the bravery and resolve of these Canadian soldiers throughout the Battle of Hong Kong.

Specifications
No. 147818
Mintage 10,000
Composition 99.99% pure silver
Finish proof
Weight (g) 31.39
Diameter (mm) 38
Edge serrated
Certificate serialized
Face value 20 dollars
Artist Joel Kimmel (reverse), T. H. Paget (obverse)