AUSTRALIA'S service and sacrifice in the Battle of Long Tan is set to be enshrined in a commemorative coin unveiled at the Royal Australian Mint.
The special $5 uncirculated coin will mark the 50th anniversary this year of the battle.
Small Business Minister Michael McCormack, who has portfolio responsibility for the Royal Australian Mint, said the coin was an important reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of many Australians.
"Our troops' service in the Battle of Long Tan is something which all Australians should remember. This coin is important symbol and recognition from the Australian people that the total of 17 Australians who were killed in action and 25 were wounded, one of whom later died of his wounds, will never be forgotten," Mr McCormack said.
The coin marks the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, which was one of the fiercest battles fought by Australian soldiers in Vietnam, involving 105 Australians and three New Zealanders from D Company 6RAR. D Company were greatly assisted by an ammunition resupply by RAAF helicopters, close fire support from New Zealand's 161 Field Battery, together with additional artillery support from the Australian task force base at Nui Dat and the arrival of reinforcements in APCs as night fell.
Minister for Veterans' Affairs Dan Tehan said the coin's striking would help Australians remember the service and sacrifice of the men and women who served in Vietnam.
"The bravery, tenacity and sacrifice of the Australian and New Zealand soldiers in the Battle of Long Tan is the stuff of legend," Mr Tehan said.
"That victory has come to symbolise Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War. This commemorative coin will honour the Long Tan veterans and every single person who served their country during the Vietnam War."
On sale now, the commemorative coin retails for $25 and can be purchased online from the Mint's website.
Further details can be found on the Mint eShop.