Old Ironsides Celebrated In Silver By Perth Mint

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The USS Constitution is a wooden-hulled, three masted, heavy frigate of the United States Navy. President George Washington named the ship after the Constitution of the United States of America. She was launched in 1797 and is the world's oldest floating commissioned naval vessel.

The USS Constitution was one of six frigates authorised for construction under the Naval Act 1794. Built in Boston, Massachusetts, her first duties with the newly formed United States Navy were to provide protection for American merchant shipping during the Quasi War with France, and to defeat the Barbary pirates in the First Barbary War.

The USS Constitution is renowned for her defeat of five British warships during the 1812 war against Great Britain. Her prowess earned her the nickname of ‘Old Ironsides' and public adulation has repeatedly saved her from demolition.

In the 1840s, the USS Constitution acted as the nation's flagship and circumnavigated the world. During the American Civil War she was used as a naval training ship. In 1878, she carried artwork and industrial displays to the famous Paris Exposition.

Retired from active service, she was designated a museum ship in 1907. In 1931, she started a three-year 90-port tour of the nation, and in 1997, again sailed under her own power for her 200 birthday.

Today, the USS Constitution is a fully commissioned US Navy ship with an active-duty crew of 60 personnel. The ship and crew participate in ceremonies educational programs, and special events whilst remaining open to visitors all year. She is berthed at Pier 1, Bunker Hill, Boston, USA.

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