Except for the double-date 1949-2019, the reverse is a reproduction of Thomas Shingles’ original design for a commemorative silver dollar issued in 1949, to mark Newfoundland’s entry into Canadian Confederation (March 31, 1949). It features a detailed rendering of The Matthew, the ship historians believe John Cabot was sailing when he reached the coast of Newfoundland in 1497. The image of the three-masted whip under full sail was originally based on a model and taken from a photograph provided by Ernest Maunder of St. John’s, Newfoundland. Beneath the water lies the Latin inscription “FLOREAT TERRA NOVA” (“May the New Found Land Flourish”). The obverse features the effigy of King George VI by T. H. Paget.

Like pages from our history, past commemorations provide an opportunity to explore the heritage of the Royal Canadian Mint and thank all the people who contributed to its history—from engravers to the production floor.

This 5 oz fine silver coin is a 70th anniversary tribute to Newfoundland's status as a province of Canada and to a well-loved commemorative piece that is the legacy of Thomas Shingles, Master Engraver of the Royal Canadian Mint (1943-1965).