The provided sources detail a range of Canadian commemorative silver coins, primarily focusing on proof and uncirculated sets released by the Royal Canadian Mint. While not directly addressing a specific gemstone associated with a July birthstone, the documents offer a detailed overview of the minting practices, collectible value, and historical significance of these silver issues. The information centers on coin grading, mintage years, and commemorative themes, particularly those relating to Canadian history and military events. This article will explore the details of these Canadian silver coins, their collectible aspects, and the Royal Canadian Mint’s role in preserving national heritage.
Historical Context of Canadian Silver Coinage
The Royal Canadian Mint has a long history of producing commemorative coins, often tied to significant national events. The sources highlight several instances of this, notably the 2016 $20 Fine Silver Coin commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Beaumont-Hamel during the First World War. This coin serves as a tangible link to a pivotal moment in Canadian history, specifically recognizing the sacrifice of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment. The presentation of these coins to the regiment and the Newfoundland and Labrador Command of the Royal Canadian Legion underscores the Mint’s commitment to honoring national heroes and preserving collective memory.
The commemorative nature of these coins extends beyond military history. The sources also mention sets celebrating the Queen’s Jubilee and the 125th anniversary of Canada, demonstrating a broader scope of commemorative themes. These coins are not merely currency; they are artifacts that encapsulate cultural and historical narratives.
Coin Grading and Collectible Value
A significant portion of the provided data focuses on coin grading, utilizing terms like “MS 64,” “PR 68,” “VF 30,” and “AG 3.” These designations refer to the condition of the coin, assessed according to standards established by grading services such as ICCS, PCGS, NGC, ANACS, and ICG. “MS” denotes Mint State, indicating an uncirculated coin, while “PR” signifies Proof, a specially minted coin with a highly polished finish. “VF,” “F,” “VG,” and “AG” represent Very Fine, Fine, Very Good, and About Good, respectively, indicating varying degrees of wear and tear.
The numerical values accompanying these designations (e.g., 64, 68, 30) further refine the grading, with higher numbers indicating better condition and, consequently, higher collectible value. The sources demonstrate a wide range of grades available in the market, from pristine “MS 70” coins to heavily worn “AG 3” examples. The prevalence of “Not Specified” grades suggests a significant portion of coins are sold without formal grading.
The retail price of the 2016 Beaumont-Hamel commemorative coin is listed as $109.95 with a limited mintage of 10,000, indicating its potential as a valuable collector’s item. Other coins, such as the 2025 $20 Silver Proof coin, are listed with varying prices, reflecting differences in mintage, condition, and demand. The auction data provided shows a dynamic market with prices influenced by factors such as rarity, collector interest, and the grading service’s assessment.
Royal Canadian Mint Production and Distribution
The Royal Canadian Mint plays a central role in the production and distribution of these commemorative coins. The sources indicate that coins are available through various channels, including direct contact with the Mint (1-800-267-1871 in Canada, 1-800-268-6468 in the US), the Mint’s website (www.mint.ca), and its boutiques in Ottawa, Winnipeg, and Vancouver. Additionally, the Mint utilizes a global network of dealers and distributors, including Canada Post outlets, to reach a wider audience.
The Mint’s press releases, as exemplified by the August 16, 2016 release regarding the Beaumont-Hamel coin, demonstrate its active role in promoting these commemorative issues and connecting them to significant historical events. The release highlights the Mint’s commitment to creating “a permanent reminder” of important chapters in Canadian history.
Design and Artistic Elements
The 2016 Beaumont-Hamel coin provides a specific example of the artistic detail incorporated into these commemorative issues. The reverse design depicts a young soldier advancing across battle-scarred terrain, with the “Danger Tree” and artillery fire vividly rendered through intricate engraving. Selective gold plating is used to highlight the figure of “Victory” from the Victory Medal, adding a symbolic layer to the design. The obverse features a gold-plated effigy of King George V, further grounding the coin in its historical context.
This attention to detail and artistic merit is characteristic of the Royal Canadian Mint’s commemorative coin program. The coins are not simply representations of monetary value; they are miniature works of art that tell stories and evoke emotions.
Summary of Coin Types and Years Mentioned
The sources list a variety of Canadian coin sets and individual coins, spanning several decades. A summary is provided below:
| Year | Coin Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1954 | Year Set | |
| 1964 | Proof Like Set | 80% Silver |
| 1965 | Silver Proof Set | Blunt 5 Dollar |
| 1966 | Proof Like Set | Voyageur Silver Dollar |
| 1967 | Proof Set | Centennial Set |
| 1968 | Proof Set | |
| 1970 | Proof Set | 6 Piece |
| 1974 | Proof Set | Winnipeg 100 Years |
| 1976 | Proof Set | |
| 1977 | Double Dollar Proof Set | Silver Jubilee |
| 1978 | Double Dollar Proof Set | |
| 1980 | Proof Set | |
| 1981 | Proof Set | Double Dollar |
| 1983 | Proof Set | University Games |
| 1984 | Proof Set | With Silver Dollar |
| 1985 | Double Dollar Proof Set | |
| 1986 | Proof Set | |
| 1987 | Proof Set | |
| 1988 | Proof Set | |
| 1992 | Proof Quarter Set | 125th Anniversary |
| 1998 | Silver Proof Coins | Ocean Giants |
| 2002 | Double Dollar Proof Set | Queen’s Jubilee |
| 2003 | Proof Set | |
| 2005 | Silver Maple Leaf | Colorized Edition |
| 2006 | Silver Proof Set | Victoria Cross |
| 2015 | Silver Maple Leaf | Incuse Reverse Proof |
| 2016 | Silver Coin | Battle of Beaumont-Hamel |
| 2019 | Wildlife Predator Series | 4 Coin Set |
| 2024 | Maple Leaf | Ultra High Relief |
| 2025 | Silver Proof Coin | Bluenose, King Charles III |
| 2025 | Silver Proof Coin | Beaver, King Charles III |
| 2025 | Silver Proof Coin | Williamson Diamond Brooch |
This table demonstrates the breadth of the Royal Canadian Mint’s commemorative coin program over several decades.
Conclusion
The provided sources offer a detailed glimpse into the world of Canadian commemorative silver coins. While not directly related to birthstones, the information highlights the Royal Canadian Mint’s role in preserving national history, celebrating significant events, and producing collectible items of artistic and monetary value. The emphasis on coin grading, mintage numbers, and distribution channels provides valuable insights into the dynamics of the collector’s market. The coins themselves serve as tangible representations of Canadian identity and heritage, offering a unique perspective on the nation’s past and present. The sources, while focused on a specific type of collectible, demonstrate the enduring appeal of numismatics and the power of coins to tell stories and connect us to history.