The fourth coin in the Royal Canadian Mint’s highly successful series of fine silver (99.99% pure) 20-Dollar coins!

In 1951, when 25 year-old Princess Elizabeth made her first visit to Canada, she sported a sparkling diamond-encrusted maple leaf brooch. This simple but important gesture initiated what has become a hallmark of Her Majesty’s 60-year reign: her unique ability to connect with Commonwealth subjects around the world.

The Design:

The reverse image by Canadian artist Laurie McGaw features a smiling portrait of Queen Elizabeth II sporting one of her famous hats and her renowned maple leaf diamond brooch. The coin features a unique specimen finish which enhances the bust of Her Majesty in three-quarter profile, her dashing hat circled with a broad band and elaborate bow and featuring two trimmed feathers, resulting in a contrasting, matte appearance. Engraved markings indicating “Canada 1952 – 2012” commemorate Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee. Also features the text “20 Dollars,” “Fine Silver/Argent Pur,” and the purity standard of “9999.” The unique obverse of the coin features the effigy of Her Majesty that first appeared on Canadian coins in 1953, the year following her coronation. This effigy appeared on Canadian coins from 1953 to 1964 along with the Latin inscription “Elizabeth II Dei Gratia Regina”—“Elizabeth II, Queen by the grace of God.”