Description
A blessing of good health is truly one of the greatest, for it invokes overall wellness of both mind and body as the solid foundation for a long and fulfilled life. The Royal Canadian Mint concludes a unique series that celebrates the traditions of Chinese-Canadian communities, with a scallop-shaped gold coin that confers upon its owner a blessing for health and longevity. Mintage is limited to 588 coins. HST/GST exempt.
The Design:
The reverse features a design by Canadian artists Chris and Rosina Reid in the distinctive artistic style of traditional Chinese paper cutting. The inspiring design centres on a monkey, whose curiosity and energetic ways are the embodiment of the desire to taste the flavours of a full and healthy life. In the monkey’s hand is a peach; this sacred symbol of longevity and immortality is regarded as the divine fruit of gods, and expresses a wish for a long life. The monkey is at the base of a peach tree, which is covered with eight additional peaches and nine peach blossoms—an auspicious number, as the number “9” is associated with royalty and has often been used in ancient Chinese art to convey best wishes and longevity. Above and to the right of the monkey is a Chinese symbol that conveys the blessing of “health”. The face value “150 DOLLARS”, the year “2016”, the word “CANADA” and the Chinese characters for “CANADA” are all engraved within the outer band that frames the image field. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.
A stunning addition to any Chinese-inspired collection, and a deeply meaningful gift to convey your heartfelt wishes to the recipient.