Description
This 2014 $20 coloured pure silver coin was designed by Canadian Ojibwa artist Cyril Assiniboine, and presents an artistic depiction of the Legend of Nanaboozhoo. In the foreground, a side profile of Nanaboozhoo (facing left) shows the cultural hero in flight. Mintage is limited to just 8,500. As a pure silver coin struck by the Royal Canadian Mint, this item is HST/GST exempt.
The Design:
Nanaboozhoo is wearing a traditional Western Ojibwa dress. In his right hand he holds a wooden arrow is already adorned with the feathers he has snatched from the Thunderbirds. In the background, an adult Thunderbird soars on outstretched wings as he angrily pursues Nanaboozhoo. This coin is engraved with the word "CANADA," the date "2014" and the face value of "20 DOLLARS."
Nanaboozhoo:
Storytelling has long been a rich oral tradition for Aboriginal cultures. It is said that from the first snowfall to the first clap of thunder, elders impart history, traditions and life lessons to the younger generation through rich narratives filled with allegories and imagery. For the Aboriginal Peoples, these tales – and the messages they convey – form deep connections to who they are, how they relate to the world, their ceremonial rituals and even everyday life.
Often, these stories revolve around characters that possess physical and personality traits akin to humans, animals, plants and even the elements. For the Anishinaabe, an important cultural character is Nanaboozhoo; as a shapeshifting spirit, he teaches right from wrong through his adventures while offering lessons on how to live in harmony with the natural world.
