2016 Australia at War. Gulf Wars 50 Cent Colour Printed Uncirculated in Card

Australia was one of a number of nations to act against Iraq following its invasion of Kuwait in 1990. While tensions built throughout the latter part of 1990, the war would take shape as a short-lived offensive in the early part of 1991 with coalition forces overwhelming Iraq’s defenses swiftly. After the first Gulf war the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) remained deployed to help enforce sanctions on Iraq in the Persian Gulf. This presence remained mostly peaceful until 2003, when escalating tensions over weapons of mass destruction culminated in a second coalition invasion of Iraq, which Australia was involved in. No weapons were found, but Australian ground forces participated in the overthrow of Saddam Hussein and provided ongoing support to the democratic government until 2009. The RAN continues to serve in the Persian Gulf to this day (September 2016).

Reverse capturing one of the modern elements of our war history the coin’s reverse features an artistic representation of soldiers advancing down a road across an arid landscape, accompanied by colour printed medal ribbon motifs. Uncirculated colour printed coin on a presentation card.

Part of the Australia at War series, which features 18 coins that reflect the nation’s pride in our brave servicemen and women.

*Stock images courtesy of the Royal Australian Mint.