The Navy's Anchorage
HMAS Cairns Medallion Challenge Coin
HMAS Cairns Medallion Challenge Coin
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Officially commissioned as a base in February 1974, HMAS Cairns followed decades of regular Navy visits to the port of Cairns. Located in Portsmith, the base provides maintenance, logistic, and administrative support for Cairns-based units and ships, and delivers refit and training support for neighbouring Pacific Island nations.
Design & Significance
Design & Significance
Every element of this coin's design carries symbolic weight, true to naval tradition:
- Rope Roundel — the encircling rope border represents a strong, unbreakable bond — a symbol of loyalty and security.
- Silver/White — a symbol of truth, innocence, purity, sincerity, and peace.
- Gold — representing wisdom, constancy, faithfulness, glory, and generosity, gold lends the badge its distinctive, striking finish.
Coin Specifications
Coin Specifications
- Diameter: 48mm
- Thickness: 4mm
- Material: Zinc alloy with shiny gold plating
- Finish: Epoxy coating over raised metal detail
- Presentation: Supplied in a protective PVC pouch
Commemorate Navy's home of mine warfare with this finely detailed challenge coin, honouring the history, heraldry, and spirit of Navy. A distinctive keepsake for serving and former personnel, collectors, and anyone with a connection to Australia's naval warfare training heritage.