Churchill’s “V for Victory” Campaign: A Leader’s Powerful Symbol of Unity

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On July 19, 1941, Winston Churchill, our steadfast British Prime Minister, introduced a potent symbol of hope and defiance: the “V for Victory” campaign. This emblem of resistance became a rallying cry for the Allied forces and occupied Europe, showcasing Churchill’s leadership and his ability to inspire a war-torn world.

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Image credit IWM youtube video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3BmyaP9Vj1U, please consider supporting Imperial War Museums at https://www.justgiving.com/iwm

The Origin of the “V” Symbol

The idea of using the letter “V” as a symbol of victory came from Victor de Laveleye, a Belgian politician and broadcaster. In January 1941, de Laveleye suggested that “V,” the first letter of “victoire” in French, “vrijheid” in Dutch, and “victory” in English, could unify those resisting the Axis powers. This simple yet profound idea quickly spread, as people across occupied Europe began marking the letter “V” in public places as a silent act of defiance.

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Image credit: IWM – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3BmyaP9Vj1U

Churchill’s Leadership and Promotion of the Campaign

Churchill saw the potential of the “V” sign to inspire the public. On July 19, 1941, he endorsed the “V for Victory” campaign in a radio broadcast, urging people everywhere to adopt the symbol as a gesture of defiance and hope.

Churchill himself frequently made the “V” sign with his fingers during public appearances, creating a powerful visual connection between his leadership and the cause of victory. This gesture, captured in photographs and newsreels, became synonymous with his indomitable spirit.

The British government supported the campaign vigorously. The BBC integrated the Morse code for “V” (dot-dot-dot-dash) into its broadcasts, often using the opening notes of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, which matched this pattern. Posters, leaflets, badges, stickers and even cigarettes helped spread the “V for Victory” message far and wide.

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Image credit: IWM- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3BmyaP9Vj1U

The Impact of Churchill’s Symbol

The “V for Victory” campaign significantly boosted morale in both occupied and free nations. For those under Nazi control, the symbol provided a sense of solidarity and hope, reminding them that liberation was possible. In Allied countries, it reinforced the resolve to support the war effort and remain united against tyranny.

The widespread use of the “V” symbol also had a psychological impact on the Axis powers, demonstrating the resilience and determination of those they sought to subdue.

Today, Churchill’s “V for Victory” campaign stands as a testament to his leadership and the power of symbols in rallying a nation. His strategic use of the “V” sign not only galvanised the war effort but also left a lasting legacy of hope and unity that continues to inspire.

Churchill’s ability to transform a simple idea into a powerful emblem of resistance and victory exemplifies his extraordinary leadership during one of history’s darkest times. The “V” sign remains a timeless symbol of the enduring human spirit and the fight for freedom.

Thank you for reading.

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Celebrating National Winston Churchill Day

On April 9th, we mark National Winston Churchill Day, a moment to reflect on and celebrate one of the most iconic figures in British history.

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Click here to see our range of collectables celebrating Sir Winston Churchill

Who Was Sir Winston Churchill?

Sir Winston Churchill was a British statesman and leader known for his role as Prime Minister during WWII, celebrated for his leadership, speeches, and contributions to British and global history.

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LEFT: Churchill addressing merchant ships’ crews and dockers at Liverpool, April 1941 MIDDLE: Churchill during the 1945 General Election RIGHT: Churchill waves to crowds in Whitehall on the day he broadcast to the nation that the war with Germany had been won.

Celebrate, Commemorate and Collect

To commemorate Sir Winston Churchill and his profound influence, we have an array of collectables available for all enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of collecting, National Winston Churchill Day presents a perfect occasion to secure these commemorative pieces and celebrate arguably Britain’s greatest wartime leader.

JUST £15: Special Winston Churchill Piedfort issue

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The Special Winston Churchill Piedfort issue which comes in a presentation box with Certificate of Authenticity

The design of this double thickness Piedfort issue features a specially commissioned depiction of Sir Winston Churchill along with a soaring Spitfire overhead by renowned artist, David Young.

Being double thickness, this coin weighs 50 grams– almost twice as much as the standard specification, and it has also been expertly plated in 24 Carat Gold and struck to a pristine Proof finish.

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The Spectacular Sir Winston Churchill 8-Layer Silver Kilo

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Each Sir Winston Churchill 8-Layer Silver Kilo arrives displayed in a Luxury Presentation Case along with a numbered Certificate of Authenticity

This the spectacular Sir Winston Churchill 8-Layer Silver Kilo Coin

Each piece has been painstakingly struck from ONE KILO of PURE SILVER to an Antique finish and a cutting edge layered technique has been applied that not only creates a three-dimensional effect but elevates each coin to a league of its own…

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The 1965 Churchill Crown Collector’s Frame

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Just 200 of these limited-edition collector frames are available worldwide.

The 1965 Winston Churchill Crown became immensely popular and continues to be a sought-after addition to any coin collection.

And today, you can secure the stunning silver-plated edition in the popular numismatic frame, to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Winston Churchill’s birth year.

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UK 1965 Winston Churchill Death Year Sovereign

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Issued during the year of Winston Churchill’s passing – 1965 – a historically significant Sovereign 

Issued during the year of Winston Churchill’s passing – 1965 – a historically significant Sovereign 

The 1965 Sovereign is one of the most collectable classic Sovereigns due to its 22 Carat precious metal quality and significant date.

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‘Portraits of a Leader’ Churchill 50th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Cover

*** LAST 53 REMAINING ***

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Each cover is individually numbered in silver ink and comes housed in a Luxury Presentation Folder with a Certificate of Authenticity

Featuring an official British Isles Miniature Sheet depicting rare photographs of Churchill, the stamps are carefully hand-stamped with a one-day-only commemorative postmark dated 22nd January 2015 – the stamps’ First Day of Issue.

Encapsulated within the cover are three official British Isles £5 Proof Coins that feature finely engraved portraits of Churchill – in his official army uniform during WWI and WW2, and the centre coin shows a recognisable portrait of him as a politician with his trademark bow tie.

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Winston Churchill Half Crown Collection

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Out of a worldwide edition limit of 150, just 30 are available due to the difficulty of sourcing such historically significant coins.

This exclusive set comprises four original Half Crown coins, each representing the unique, historical journey that encompasses both the life of Sir Winston Churchill and pays homage to his leadership during the tumultuous years of World War II.

But, as 2024 marks the 150th anniversary of his birth year, the 1874 Half-Crown has become almost impossible to source. 

>>Click here to secure your Winston Churchill Half Crown Collection<<

Striking a coin for his father: The ‘Mad’ Piper of D-Day

John Millin honours his father, Piper Bill Millin, in a poignant tribute by striking a 50p coin for the 80th Anniversary of D-Day.

Stay tuned for the full exclusive interview coming TUESDAY.