Description
This 2019 $20 fine silver coin serves as both a high quality collectible and as an enduring tribute to all those who helped to pave the way for the freedoms we enjoy today. It reminds us of sacrifices made in times of war and in the defence of peace. When woven into a wreath and laid upon our monuments, the bright red poppy acts as a solemn mark from a grateful nation — one that promises to never forget.
A Murano glass poppy tops the Royal Canadian Mint’s tribute to the men and women who lost their lives in the service of our county. Behind this red flower of Remembrance, the engraved design is based on the poppy wreaths laid at the foot of our war memorials each November 11. Its cross-shaped ribbon bears the promise made to the fallen, even as it stretches across the famous wildflowers of Flanders. While the rest of the coin features a coloured and engraved background, the vibrantly coloured glass poppy is fully three dimensional, individually hand crafted by master glassmakers Bernardino and Giorgio Vio, in Murano, Italy. Mintage is limited to only 6,000 coins. GST/HST exempt.
The Design:
The design by artist Kerri Weller is based on the poppy wreaths that are a common sight at commemorative services held each November 11 in Canada (Remembrance Day). A solemn symbol of remembrance, a red Murano glass poppy is centrally positioned against the coin’s proof finish. A wreath of poppies (Papaver rhoeas) forms a circular shape that represents continuity and hope behind the cross-shaped ribbon that bears the incuse text “LEST WE FORGET N’OUBLIONS JAMAIS”. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.
Murano glass coins from the Royal Canadian Mint are highly sought after today for their beauty and collectability. Because the Murano glass poppy has been fashioned by hand, each coin is unique.
