Historical information

Produced as a souvenir from two Japanese Midget submarines sunk during attacks on Sydney Harbour in WWII. This souvenir was produced to raise funds for the RAN relief fund and King George's Fund For Sailors. It was sold as a souvenir as part of a touring exhibition around the country accompanying a composite midget submarine constructed of the two sunken vessels raised from Sydney Harbour.

Significance

The souvenir submarine has tangible connections to the Japanese Midget Submarines sunk during attacks on Sydney Harbour in 1942. It is historically significant for its links to defending Australia and for its connections to tourism and fund raising relating to war time efforts.

Physical description

A cut square fragment of metal with possibly some Japanese characters etched on it. Attached to a paper label by a piece of cloth.

Inscriptions & markings

A Guaranteed Souvenier/ from the Japanese Midget Submarine/ Sunk in Sydney Harbour/ Sunday, May 31st 1942/ G.C. Muirhead - Gould/ Proceeds to Rear Admiral in Charge, Sydney/ RAN Relief Fund and King George's Fund for Sailors.

References