Description
This 2019 $200 luminous gold coin is an artistic expression of pride in Canada’s inclusive spirit that radiates outward, and in the diversity that drives our innovation and prosperity. Stunning and strongly symbolic, the engraved line art is inspired by Sinhala and Indian art — part of a world of cultural traditions that are perfectly at home in Canada. But its crowning glory is the .95 ct natural Madagascar ruby at the centre of the lotus-shaped pattern. The crimson red cabochon gemstone adds a red flush to the design, which mixes cultural emblems such as trillium and dogwood flowers, and the maple leaf that stands for diversity. Mintage of this coin is limited to only 250. GST/HST exempt.
The Design:
Inspired by the patterns of Sinhala and Indian art, the reverse design by visual artist Frances Ferdinands features the lotus, a near-universal symbol of purity, beauty and prosperity. Viewed from an overhead perspective, the flower’s eight primary petals are open to the world and reach out in all directions, like Canada’s spirit. Between two intertwined cord patterns (a symbol of the ties that bind) are other petal shapes, which bear leaf and curled fern motifs. The outer circle celebrates Canada’s multiculturalism through a mix of emblems: trillium and dogwood flowers, and the maple leaf. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.
