After the last silver dollars were struck for circulation in 1967, many collectors sought to continue the series with a new numismatic issue.  Starting in 1971 and continuing to the present, the Royal Canadian Mint has issued its longest running and most popular series of collector coins, with a new cased proof collector silver dollar each year.  Each coin features a unique commemorative design, and together they recount the history and important events of our nation.  

Standing at the threshold of a new millennium, Canada’s ongoing voyage of discovery reflects a legacy defined by energy, ability and achievement. This sterling silver dollar serves as a tribute to that spirit, commemorating the monumental milestones of humanity’s past and our future aspirations in the final frontier of space.

The reverse design by Donald F. Warkentin features a person with their arms outstretched toward outer space in front of a space shuttle, solar panels, and robotic arms, together forming a maple leaf crowned with a series of lunar phases.