$10 Proof Pure Silver Coin Battleship HMS Prince of Wales

This large two-ounce fine silver $10 proof coin features a diamond shape with an image of the imposing battleship HMS Prince of Wales. This ship is both a marvel of technology and a part of the important story of the Second World War. In addition to its exceptional engraving and artistic appeal, this coin provides a fascinating tangible link to history for World War II enthusiasts, naval historians and coin collectors. The coin is additionally enhanced with an element of gold plating at the top showing the country of origin of the ship.

Originally named the HMS King Edward VIII, the HMS Prince of Wales was renamed after the king abdicated the throne. The battleship had a brief but valiant tenure as part of the British Royal Navy in World War II. In 1940, the Prince of Wales was damaged by German aircraft while still being outfitted, but after repairs, she sailed in the Battle of Denmark Strait against the famed German Bismarck. In 1941, the battleship was engaged in the South China Sea near Kuantan when, along with the HMS Repulse, she became one of the first capital ships to be sunk on the open sea by air fire alone.

About the HMS Prince of Wales
On January 19, 1941, the Royal Navy commissioned this battleship, which at that time was the most modern. The 44,800 gross register tons were powered by four 110,000 HP steam turbines which enabled the ship to reach a sailing speed of 27.7 knots. More than 1,500 officers and sailors operated the ship which had a length of 225 metres and a beam of 31.5 metres.

Together with the HMS Hood, her first assignment was to prevent the intrusion of the famous German battleship Bismarck as well as the Prince Eugene into the Atlantic in May 1941.  The Bismarck's salvoes damaged the HMS Prince of Wales severely; she had to retreat. However, the HMS Prince of Wales succeeded to damage the Bismarck beforehand which affected the further progress of the naval war.

After repairs, the HMS Prince of Wales was summoned to the Pacific area. During an attack by Japanese airplanes on December 10, 1941 the chamber of the drive shaft was hit which caused water to penetrate into the waist of the ship. Three hundred and twenty-seven sailors perished on that day, but fortunately 1,285 others were able to be saved by convoying ships.

• Legal tender value: $10 in Palau
• Mintage: 1,000
• Dimensions: 42 mm x 42 mm
• Weight: 2 oz fine silver
• GST/HST exempt

Includes:
• 2009 $10 Proof Pure Silver Coin Battleship HMS Prince of Wales

Warranty Information:
This product comes with a 30-day warranty through TSC.