Military
The Sherman Firefly Tank: Unleashing Fury on D-Day and Beyond
Click here to view the brand new 80th anniversary of D-Day coin range featured in this video.
From the hedgerows of Normandy, France, to the hills of Italy, the Sherman Firefly stood out among Allied tanks as a fearsome adversary for the German forces during World War II. This modified version of the Sherman Tank played a crucial role in the historic D-Day invasion and beyond.
The Challenge:
The original M4 Sherman tank faced limitations with its basic 75 mm gun against formidable German tanks like the Panther and Tiger. The solution came in the form of the 17 Pounder, a powerful British gun capable of taking down any known German armour at the time. The challenge was to integrate this formidable weapon onto the Sherman Tank. Despite initial opposition from the Ministry of Supply, by October-November 1943, the concept gained momentum, receiving the highest priority from Winston Churchill in preparation for D-Day.
D-Day Deployment:
As the crucial day approached, the Sherman Firefly became a secret weapon in the Allied arsenal. Deployed just in time for D-Day, it filled the ranks of the 21st Army Group’s Armoured Brigades. Allied intelligence had not anticipated the presence of formidable German tanks, making the Sherman Firefly a critical asset in facing unexpected threats.
On the Battlefield:
The Sherman Firefly quickly gained a reputation as a game-changer. In the chaos of D-Day, the Sherman Firefly’s firepower proved decisive in repelling German attacks and securing vital beachheads.
The Sherman Firefly’s effectiveness became legendary, with notable instances like Lt. G. K. Henry’s five Panthers knocked out in rapid succession with only six rounds. Even the feared German tank ace Michael Wittman is believed to have fallen to a Canadian Sherman Firefly.
Legacy:
Over 1,900 Sherman Fireflies served in various Allied divisions, making significant contributions in Normandy, Italy, and beyond. Post-war, Sherman Fireflies found new homes in countries like Italy, Lebanon, Argentina, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
Click here to view the other key elements featured on the D-Day 80th Anniversary coin design.
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D-Day: The Epic Turning Point in World History
This year marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day, a pivotal event on June 6, 1944, that significantly altered the course of World War II and influenced the fate of nations.
D-Day, also known as Operation Overlord, was an immense Allied invasion executed by Land, Sea, and Air. The mission: secure a stable position in Western Europe, paving the way for the liberation of nations oppressed by Adolf Hitler’s Third Reich.
A crucial element of D-Day involved the simultaneous landing of Allied forces on five Normandy beachheads: Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword. This coordinated effort stands as the largest amphibious assault in the history of warfare.
More than 156,000 Allied troops from Great Britain, the USA, Canada, and other nations participated in this invasion. These brave individuals worked together meticulously to establish a secure foothold in Western Europe.
Operation Overlord featured an extensive naval armada with over 5,000 vessels and air support from more than 11,000 aircraft. This combined effort was essential for the success of the landings.
In the lead-up to the beach landings, thousands of paratroopers were airdropped behind enemy lines to disrupt German defenses and secure strategic objectives, adding an extra layer of complexity to the plan.
The invasion force brought an unprecedented amount of firepower, including tanks, artillery, and well-equipped infantry. The objective was clear: to overwhelm German defenders and establish a secure beachhead.
However, the human cost of D-Day was immense. On that single day, thousands of Allied soldiers lost their lives, and many more were wounded. The beaches of Normandy hold a sacred place in history, symbolising the price paid for the pursuit of freedom.
To commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-day, a brand new range of commemorative coins have been issued. Take a look at the brand new designs and shop the whole range via the link below.
The 80th Anniversary of D-day commemorative coin range.
Exclusive Interview with Neil Roberts – The renowned military artist behind the NEW Britain at War Commemorative Collection
Last month, we had the privilege of diving into the creative mind of Neil Roberts, the artist behind our brand new Britain at War Commemorative Collection which encapsulates key moments from World War II.
Neil Roberts, whose work has graced the covers of Britain’s longest-running war comic book, Commando Comic, has lent his artistic prowess to craft this iconic collection.
Join us as we unravel the inspirations and creative journey that brought this remarkable project to life.
This is perhaps the most comprehensive and brilliantly illustrated WWII Collection ever created. From the Battle of Britain and D-Day, to the Great Escape, the Blitz and the Desert Rats – it’s all there.
Introducing the brilliantly illustrated WWII Collection
Special Introductory Offer – Yours FREE (+postage) when you trial the Britain at War Collection
Best of all, you can join this superb new collection for FREE (all you pay is postage). And, as a special introductory offer you will receive not one, but TWO of the commemoratives from this brilliant series for FREE (+£2.99 postage) when you trial the Britain at War Collection.
There’s nothing to lose. If it’s not for you – simply send it straight back to us and we’ll refund your postage. There’s no further commitment.
Click here to secure your FREE Battle of Britain and Escape from Colditz Commemoratives and trial the Britain at War Collection >>