This Remembrance Sunday in an especially poignant one, the 80th anniversary of D-Day. And we’re taking a moment to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of those who played a pivotal role in one of the most significant military operations in history.

The Westminster Collection, in partnership with the Royal British Legion, brings to light the stories of four veterans whose bravery exemplifies the spirit of that day. Their personal accounts offer us a window into the past, ensuring that the lessons and legacies of 6th June, 1944, are never forgotten.

Bernard Morgan – The Young Visionary of Gold Beach

Bernard Morgan was only 19 when he landed on Gold Beach as an RAF sergeant, making him one of the youngest sergeants to participate in the Normandy invasion. His task began perilously as he manned a Bren gun aboard his landing craft at 3 AM, ready to fend off any aerial attacks.

The harsh reality of war struck him deeply as he witnessed the bodies of Allied troops upon his landing—a sight that profoundly affected him and stayed with him for the rest of his life. Bernard still possesses a significant piece of history: the original telex announcing the German surrender, a document he kept secret for over 50 years.

His reflections on the importance of remembrance, particularly through the symbol of the poppy, resonate with his belief in acknowledging the sacrifices made by his fallen comrades.

Albert Price – From Operation Smash to Normandy Shores

Albert Price’s wartime journey began with the 4th/7th Royal Dragoon Guards in 1942, two years before he would set foot on Gold Beach as an 18-year-old gunner. His experience in Operation Smash at Studland Bay, a rehearsal that tragically cost lives, foreshadowed the brutal realities of war he would face.

On D-Day, Albert landed amid a storm of artillery, a memory etched in his mind for its intensity and the pride he felt in being part of such a monumental event. The personal losses he endured, and his skirmish with the 12th Panzer division, where he witnessed the severe injury of his driver, underscore the brutal costs of war.

Jack Mortimer – The Reluctant Hero of Sword Beach

Jack Mortimer vividly recounts the daunting scenario as he landed on Sword Beach, surrounded by a massive assembly of ships, vehicles, tanks, and artillery. His role as a driver and dispatch rider for the 12th Ordnance Beach detachment thrust him directly into the line of fire, navigating through a storm of shells to advance towards Caen. The threat of snipers and the sight of numerous casualties painted a stark picture of the day’s grim realities.

Despite the heroism he displayed, Jack humbly remembers the fallen as the true heroes and shares the emotional burden of returning to the beaches where he saw so much loss.

Joe Mines – The Unseen Bravery of Mine Clearing

Joe Mines’ story of being thrust into the role of mine clearer due to his surname is both ironic and tragic. Tasked with clearing mines from Ver-sur-Mer using only bayonets, Joe faced the terrifying prospect of triggering mines intended to cause maximum damage, like the wooden Schu-mines or the deadly S-mines, which projected ball bearings at waist height.

The vivid memories of his comrades falling shortly after landing highlight the random and brutal nature of war. His later years spent promoting the Poppy Appeal helped him find a sense of pride and healing, recognising the value of his survival and contributions.

Reflecting on Their Legacy

The personal stories of Bernard, Albert, Jack, and Joe not only provide a human perspective to the historical event of D-Day but also emphasise the broader themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the enduring impact of their actions.

This Remembrance Sunday, it is a time to reflect on our veterans’ immense contributions, but also a moment to recognise the ongoing efforts of the Royal British Legion, which continues to stand by our veterans and their families long after the guns have fallen silent.

The work of the Royal British Legion goes far beyond the poppy pins we wear in November. They provide life-changing support to those who gave so much for their country, ensuring that their service is never forgotten. Whether it’s offering financial assistance, emotional support, or practical advice, the Royal British Legion is there, extending a compassionate hand to the heroes of our past and present.

We must also take a moment to appreciate the incredible efforts of those who have rallied behind this cause. Collectors such as yourself have now raised over £1.35 million for the Royal British Legion. Their dedication, year after year, is a testament to the enduring power of community and the deep respect our nation holds for its veterans.

On behalf of The Westminster Collection, thank you.

Five years ago, we attended a very special event where Olivia, an outpatient of Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), struck the very first Peter Pan Silver Proof 50p Coin you can read about it here.

This event marked the beginning of something extraordinary. Tens of thousands of collectors rushed to own the world’s first Peter Pan 50p coins and they went down in history as one of the most popular releases ever.

The coins hit the headlines and featured more than 25 times across national and local news websites.

Now, five years on from this collecting event, The Westminster Collection, Tower Mint Ltd, Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (GOSH Charity) and of course, Olivia, have teamed up to bring Peter Pan back to British Isles coinage.

A new chapter has unfolded in this wonderful story, and we went back to where it all began – to a First Strike event at Tower Mint Ltd.

Just like five years ago, the first Peter Pan Silver 50p of the new 2024 collection was struck by the same very special girl called Olivia.

Olivia, whose father Elliot works for Tower Mint, has the rare genetic disorder Williams syndrome and has been under the care of GOSH since she was 3 years old. As such, it felt like the perfect piece in the jigsaw to give her the honour of striking the very first Silver Peter Pan 50p Coin. And what a great job she did – take a look to see her in action below…

Chris Carter, Head of Partnership Development at GOSH Charity, attended the event and said: “When JM Barrie said that he’d donate the copyright to Peter Pan to the hospital, he couldn’t have known at the time what the impact of that would be, but it’s been one of the best and most generous gifts we’ve ever had. GOSH has always relied on charitable support and for the Westminster Collection to have raised more than £655,000 since the start of the partnership is phenomenal. All funds raised help to give seriously ill children at GOSH the best chance and the best childhood possible.”

Looking to secure your very own brand new Peter Pan 50p coins?

Click here to browse the full range today >>