Description
Canada’s 50-cent remains a constant, if elusive, collector favourite — one whose heraldic design imbues it with a deep sense of tradition and speaks to the history of a proud nation. This exclusive coin looks back at the half-dollar issued in 1943, which is re-created here in pure silver with a celebratory touch of gold plating. Mintage is limited to 4,000. HST/GST exempt.
The Design:
The reverse features a re-creation of the stylized Arms of Canada designed by G. E. Kruger-Gray, as it appeared on Canada’s 50-cent coin in 1943. At the centre is the Shield, with the royal symbols of Great Britain and France in the upper quadrants: three lions (England), one lion within a “double tressure” (Scotland), the harp of Tara (Ireland), and three fleur-de-lis (France). In the bottom portion of the Shield, a sprig of three maple leaves represents Canadians of all origins. Two Supporters hold the Shield: on the viewer’s left, a lion holds a lance with the Union Jack; on the right, a unicorn holds the royal flag of France. Above the Shield is an enlarged version of the Royal Crown, which reflects the monarchy of Canada. Both the rim and the arms are gold-plated, which strikes an elegant contrast between the gleam of gold and the silver shine of the mirror-like background. Along with the reeded edge, the reverse includes the engraved face value “50 CENTS” and the word “CANADA”, while the dates “1943-2018” are inscribed in a matching font to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the 1943 issue. The selective gold plating continues on the obverse, which features the effigy of George VI by Sir T.H. Paget.
