With its objective to gain air superiority in the skies over Britain, in July 1940 the German Luftwaffe commenced an intensive campaign to destroy the Royal Air Force. Lasting almost four months, the end result was a decisive British victory and was described by Luftwaffe General Werner Kreipe as a “strategic (Luftwaffe) failure” and “turning point in the Second World War”. Terraine stated that the “German Air Force was bled almost to death, and suffered losses that could never be made good throughout the course of the war”. Quoting Dr (Karl) Klee “The invasion and subjugation of Britain was made to depend on that battle, and its outcome therefore materially influenced the further course and fate of the war as a whole”.

Making household names of the Supermarine Spitfire and Hawker Hurricane fighters, this was the first battle fought entirely by air forces. Casualties of the bombing amongst British civilians numbered around 90,000 however, 40,000 of the fatal. Almost 3,500 aircraft were lost in the campaign by both sides. When it was over it was clear to Hitler that Britain would fight to the end and remain a thorn in Germanys side, tying up forces that the Wehrmacht could have used elsewhere.

The coin is a nice design, bang on subject and featuring the lesser known, but more important combatant British fighter used in the battle, the Hawker Hurricane. A very clean design with some well placed inscriptions surrounding the central artwork instead of impeding on it, it’s an attractive coin with huge appeal. Jennifer McKenna has done a great job here and at $99.00 AUD, it’s pretty affordable. If you prefer this, the Pobjoy Mints recent release, or the Royal Mints 50p design, there’s shaping up to be a good choice.

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