Codenamed Operation Neptune, the largest seaborne invasion in history and the start of Operation Overlord took place on Tuesday, 6 June 1944 when a huge Allied force began the liberation of German-occupied France. The culmination of a years planning, and even then, it was almost scuppered by the weather, D-Day encompassed an assault on five beaches – Gold, Juno and Sword by British & Commonwealth forces, with Utah & Gold by the US.

Starting with an extensive aerial and naval bombardment and an airborne assault, Allied troops swarmed ashore and encountered heavy resistance, on the beach where the US forces landed, and further inland elsewhere. Casualties were heaviest at Omaha, with its high cliffs, and the landing craft came under heavy fire from gun emplacements. Despite failing to achieve any first day objectives, the push was relentless and eventually led to a break out from the landing zones. The securing of the beaches and the subsequent construction of two Mulberry Harbours led to an influx of men and material that overwhelmed the defending German Army. A rapid securing of air superiority and continued naval dominance meant the days of effective resistance in the West were numbered.

An undertaking like this is exactly the sort of event that should be commemorated. It helped change the course of history for the better, and affected literally millions of people. The world’s mints weren’t going to miss marking the invasion 75 years later, and there’s a decent selection of gold and silver coins to choose from. Numiscollect’s silver bullet is an unusual piece, and the Monnaie de Paris effort is one we like here, but there should be something that appeals to everyone.

We’ll add new coins to this page as they’re issued, and convert it to a thematic guide that can be accessed at any time. Let us know if we’ve missed any precious metal issues.