The Kokoda Track or Trail Campaign was part of the Pacific War of the Second World War.  The Campaign was a series of fierce engagements fought between Japanese and Allied forces from July to November 1942.  The Allied contingent consisted primarily of Australians who defended what was then the Australian Territory of Papua.  The Kokoda Track crosses some of the most rugged and isolated terrain in the world.  The troops endured nightmare conditions and a terrain churned to mud with the traffic of war. A remarkable feature of this conflict was the part played by Papua New Guineans, who evacuated the wounded on foot, bearing the heavy stretchers to medical aid.  The Papauns became known as the ‘fuzzy wuzzy angels’ for their dedication and bravery.The story of Kokoda remains deeply significant and walks and tours to honour this legacy have become part of an Australian tradition.

The coin’s reverse depicts an Australian soldier wearing Second World War jungle kit.  The background incorporates a printed historical image of soldiers on the Kokoda track, and the inscription KOKODA 1942 - 1943.  The Perth Mint’s ‘P’ mintmark is also incorporated into the design.

Issued as legal tender under the Australian Currency Act 1965, the coin’s obverse depicts the Ian Rank-Broadley effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the monetary denomination. The coin is struck by The Perth Mint from 1oz of 99.9% pure silver in proof quality. No more than 5,000 of these coins will be issued by The Perth Mint.