New designs of a special commemorative coin depicting Barrow-built submarines have been released.
Demand for the challenge coins began last year when engineer James Bird designed a series depicting the crest of each Dreadnought submarine, the new class now under construction at BAE Systems’ site in Barrow.
Following pressure from people keen to acquire a memento of the Astute-class, an individually numbered submarine shaped coin carrying the crests of all seven boats has also now been designed.
“The Dreadnought coins have proved very popular and have raised over £15,000 so far for good causes,” James said. Barrow Sea Cadets, We Remember Submariners and Help for Heroes are among the organisations to have benefitted from the campaign. “People began asking for an Astute version and this design will hopefully prove popular.”
Historically, challenge coins have been produced and awarded to service personnel in recognition of their efforts in a particular campaign but more recently their production has been linked to charitable fundraising.
James said: “Challenge coins are popular in the US, where they are sold to raise funds for the armed forces. We initially expected to sell a few hundred coins at most but the response has exceeded all expectations allowing us to raise a phenomenal amount for the charities we are supporting.”
Coins can be ordered online www.swocoins.co.uk.
For more information contact [email protected].
