Description
It was 100 years ago, in 1921, that our nation was assigned its most distinguished emblem: the Arms of Canada. Few symbols or icons carry as much historic and symbolic weight as our armorial bearings, for even on its centennial, Canada’s coat of arms remains a timeless symbol of sovereignty and tradition. It inspires pride by reminding us of our identity and history wherever the emblem appears, from passports to proclamations, and now, on this fine silver coin. HST/GST exempt.
The Design:
Your coin’s reverse features the current design of the Canada Coat of Arms drawn by Cathy Bursey-Sabourin, Fraser Herald at the Canadian Heraldic Authority. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.
Since 1921, the Arms of Canada has been modified three times:
- In 1923, the Government of Canada requested a painting from the College of Arms. This was the design used for governmental purposes until 1957.
- Alan Beddoe, a heraldic designer and artist, re-drew the Arms in 1957 to feature a modified Royal Crown that resembled St. Edward’s Crown, and in the shield, a sprig of red maple leaves.
- The current design was drawn by Cathy Bursey-Sabourin, Fraser Herald at the Canadian Heraldic Authority, and was approved in 1994. It includes an annulus behind the shield bearing the motto of the Order of Canada, Desiderantes Meliorem Patriam (“They desire a better country”).
