Description
This $10 proof fine silver coin commemorates the life achievements and canonization of Pope John Paul II – the first pope to visit Canada. The year 2014 marks the canonization of Pope John Paul II. He was not only the first Roman Catholic pope in history to visit Canada, but a church leader whose pontificate featured many firsts around the world. Mintage is limited to just 8,500 pieces. As a pure silver coin, this item is HST/GST exempt.
The Design:
The coin features a reproduction of a photograph of John Paul II offering Mass during his first visit to Canada in 1984. It captures the moment he raises the Consecrated Host at the elevation. The coin is engraved with the word "CANADA", and “John Paul II Jean Paul II.” It is struck with the Royal Canadian Mint’s highest quality proof finish of .9999 fine silver.
Pope John Paul II:
John Paul II became Pope in 1978 at age 58, making him the youngest pope of the 20th century. He travelled to 129 countries, covering a distance of 1.16 million kilometers over the course of his pontificate. He was an accomplished linguist who was fluent in 12 languages. He spoke both French and English on his three trips to Canada. In 1981, Pope John Paul II was shot in St. Peter’s Square in an attempted assassination, but survived and went on to meet and forgive his would-be assassin. The date of canonization for Pope John Paul II is April 27, 2014.
