This dramatic uncirculated commemorative Crown was issued by the government of the Isle of Man to honor the soldiers of World War II who exemplified the bravery and self-sacrifice that saw the allies to victory over the forces of Fascism. This Crown bears the impression of The War Medal of Norway imposed over a scene depicting the struggle in the Baltic against the Germans. Norway was invaded by Germany on the April 8th 1940 and immediately after its occupation an active underground resistance movement arose and fought throughout the war. Those Norwegians that had escaped formed active service units within the Allied forces including the Merchant Marine Corps. Instituted in 1941, The War Medal of Norway was awarded to Norwegian or Allied soldiers, resistance fighters, and civilians who had served meritoriously in the war or in the defense of Norway. This medal could be and often was awarded posthumously.