2005 $1 Silver Coin – 40th Anniversary National Flag

PRIDE IS IN THE AIR!

40TH ANNIVERSARY OF CANADA'S NATIONAL FLAG

With its impressive display of red and white, the Canadian flag never fails to stir something deep within us – a sense of identify, unity and national pride.  A fixture in our lives, it feels as timeless as the landscape that surrounds us, yet many people would be surprised to learn this profound symbol is only 40 years old.

The birth of the Canadian flag that we know today was inspired by the centennial celebrations of 1967.  Prime Minister Lester B Pearson felt such a significant anniversary should be celebrated with a distinctly Canadian national flag.

Of course, a new design could not be developed without careful consideration of the past.  Numerous experts joined the parliamentary committee and after months of reviewing countless proposals, a new design was found.  It incorporated red and white, Canada’s national colours that had been proclaimed in 1921.  And the maple leaf, recognised as a symbol of Canada since the early days of the fur trade, emerged as the most fitting emblem.

On 15^th February, 1965, Canada’s new flag was raised for the first time in an official ceremony on Parliament Hill. 

Designed by many.  Hoped for by thousands.  One voice for a powerful ideal.

Designed by Royal Canadian Mint engraver William Woodruff, the coin depicts Canada’s national flag surrounded by the Peace Tower of Parliament and celebration fireworks.  The obverse features the portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.

Denomination - Canadian One dollar

Composition - Brilliant Uncirculated (0.999)

Weight - 25.175g

Diameter - 36.07mm

Worldwide Mintage Limit - 10,000

Mint - Royal Canadian Mint