SA Union: Jan Smuts: Support for Declaration of War on Germany
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Form:
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Oval with pin clasp on reverse.
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By:
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? |
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Date:
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1939 |
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Ref:
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Laidlaw: 0187a;
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Variations:
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| Size | Metal | Mass | Value |
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| 24 mm x 19 mm | Silvered Bronze | 4 gm | $6 |
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Edge:
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Plain.
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Obverse:
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Bust of Jan Smuts in Jacket and tie, left. In an arc above: “4 - 9 - 1939”
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Reverse:
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Uniface. Attached pin.
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Notes:
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Britain declared a state of war with Germany on 3rd September 1939. South Africa was divided on the issue. The Prime Minister Barry Hertzog declared that South Africa would remain neutral. However, he was challenged by Jan Smuts, the Deputy Prime Minister, and on 4th September 1939 Hertzog was defeated in parliament by 80 votes to 67. Hertzog resigned and Smuts became the new Prime Minister of South Africa. He pledged that his country would cooperate with Britain, and declared war with Germany on 6th September.
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