Description
This set is all about marking the year 2021 with an exceptionally high quality coin collection at an affordable price point. While only the silver dollar is made of pure silver, all the other coins are exceptional quality proof finish coins. Since 1971, the highest quality coins of the year have been produced for collectors by the Royal Canadian Mint in an annual set bound in a distinctive presentation case. This 2021 special edition proof set continues the tradition presenting the highest quality coins of each denomination issued in the standard base metal composition with a frosted cameo finish, together with a brilliant finish large format dollar coin struck in fine silver.
The commemorative theme for 2021 is the 100th anniversary of the launch of the Bluenose Schooner, which is prominently featured on the large silver dollar coin and on the double date on the Bluenose dime. The obverse of the large silver dollar features the effigy of King George V who was the monarch when the Bluenose was launched in 1921. The dime features the effigy of King George VI who was the monarch when the Bluenose design dime was introduced for circulation in 1937. Mintage is limited to 30,000.
The Bluenose Schooner featured on the Silver Dollar:
The design takes us back in time to the birth of a Canadian icon, as William J. Roué puts the finishing touches on what would be his greatest legacy. Using the original hull profile blueprint, the Royal Canadian Mint has created a mirror image that aligns with the portrait of Bluenose under full sail.
The Bluenose:
The story behind the Bluenose can be traced back to 1919, when the hearty fishermen of the Canadian Maritimes scoffed at the America’s Cup race being cancelled because of “strong winds”. While the America’s cup was a race of “recreational yachts”, the fishermen sought to establish their own contest. In 1920, the International Fishermen’s Trophy was established as a prize for “the fastest ship in the North Atlantic fishing fleet”, with a requirement that any ship entered had to be a true working fishing vessel.
Canada faced a great challenge with this new race, as the American fishing vessels were usually smaller and faster. In 1920, the inaugural race was won by a ship from Gloucester, Massachusetts, and the Canadians vowed to defeat their rivals the following year. It was this challenge that inspired Halifax businessmen and Captain Angus Walters to commission W.J. Roué to design a sleek new ship that could beat the New England rivals.
The new Bluenose schooner was completed in early 1921 and was designed both as a working fishing vessel and a racing craft. With Angus Walters at the helm, the Bluenose triumphed in its first race, and the ship remained undefeated through an 18 year career.
