Description
This 2017 puzzle coin is an outstanding, first-ever achievement at the Mint, and a unique portrait of Canada that will be the highlight of the most distinctive collections. Thirteen pure silver, jigsaw-shaped coins with coloured shields encircle a selectively gold plated coin of Parliament, in the order each province and territory entered Confederation. Together, they form a large, 14-part coin measuring 123.7 mm and weighing a total 16 ounces—an exceptional keepsake of this historic moment in time. Mintage on this unique puzzle coin is limited to only 800, and as a pure silver coin issued by the Royal Canadian Mint, this coin is HST/GST exempt.
The Design:
Like a puzzle, Confederation came together piece by piece, every part clicking into place over time, the end result far greater than the sum of its parts. Diverse geographies, natural wonders and resources coming together from coast to coast to coast. A multitude of traditions, languages and skills blurring distinct cultural lines. History may have recorded the beginning of Confederation 150 years ago, but for today’s citizens, Canada can begin anywhere on this nation’s ever-evolving continuum.
Canadian heraldic artist Cathy Bursey-Sabourin has recreated Canada’s 13 provincial and territorial shields on a series of jigsaw pieces that encircle a central coin to create a large, 14-part coin. Each shield is exquisitely coloured and presented in the order each province and territory entered Confederation. A garland of maple leaves visually connects the pieces and carries a ribbon with each province’s and territory’s year of entry into Confederation. The central coin features a selectively gold plated Centre Block of Parliament Hill with the Centennial Flame burning in the foreground. A double-date (1867-2017) flanks the Peace Tower, and its clock indicates 10:00 pm when fireworks usually begin on Canada Day.
