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The Canadian silver dollar (French: Dollar argent du Canada) was first issued by the Royal Canadian Mint in 1935 to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of King George V. The coin's reverse design was sculpted by Emanuel Hahn and portrays a voyageur and a person of Indigenous descent paddling a birch-bark canoe. The faint lines in the background represent the Northern Lights. The voyageur design was used on the dollar until 1986.[1] It was then replaced with the 1987 Canadian 1-dollar coin (colloquially known as the "loonie"). 1967 marked the end of the silver dollar as a business strike, or a coin issued for circulation. After 1967, the dollar coin was made of nickel, except for non-circulating commemorative issues for the collector market, which continue to contain silver.

Varieties

[edit]

1911

[edit]
The three strikes of the 1911 silver dollar on display at the Bank of Canada Museum: the lead trial strike (left), the "Emperor of Canadian Coins" (centre) and the loan from the Royal Mint Museum (right).

While the silver dollar was not struck for production in 1911, three trial strikes were produced by the Royal Mint in London: two struck in silver and one in lead. Since these coins were unique and not intended for circulation, they have been classified as pattern coins. One of the silver coins, owned by the Royal Mint Museum, has been loaned to the Bank of Canada since 1976 and has been displayed in the Bank of Canada Museum since 1980. The lead coin was not discovered until 1977, during an office move from Parliament Hill. It was then promptly moved to the Bank of Canada's National Currency Collection with its silver counterpart.[2]

The second 1911 silver dollar had belonged to William Ellison-Macartney, deputy mint master of the Royal Mint.[3] After he died in 1924, the coin was passed on to his three children, before eventually being sold to Blair A. Seaby in 1960. He went on to display the coin to the public for the first time at a Canadian numismatic convention in Sherbrooke that same year, and at an American numismatic convention in Boston a week later.[2] The coin was eventually sold in 1965 to John McKay-Clements, former mayor of Haileybury, Ontario. Following McKay-Clements' death in 1976, the coin was auctioned off again. Due to its uniqueness, it gained the nickname of the "Emperor of Canadian Coins"[2] around the same time the 1911 half-dollar was dubbed the "King of Canadian Coins".[4]

The coin changed hands several more times,[5] being sold to Anthony Carrato of Eagle Coin Company for US$160,000 in July 1979, then Joseph Carlton and David Hirschman of Carlton Numismatics Inc. for US$325,000.[6] Eventually, the coin made its way back to Canada after being auctioned off for US$690,000 to George H. Cook, a renowned Canadian collector,[7] on January 13, 2003.[8] After his death in 2018, Cook's collection was auctioned off during the American Numismatic Association World's Fair of Money in Chicago, where it was bought one final time by Sandy Campbell and Ian Laing for $734,000 after a 20% buyer's fee.[4] They then offered the coin to the Bank of Canada Museum, citing that they want to make sure the coin stays in Canada's public cultural sphere.[2] As part of the National Currency Collection, it rejoined its silver twin and lead counterpart for the first time in nearly 110 years since their mintage.

1947

[edit]

Ten varieties of the 1947 Voyageur Dollar exist. The ten varieties can be placed into three distinct categories: the Pointed Seven, the Blunt Seven, and the Maple Leaf issue. The mintages for all of these are included on the mintage indicated on the chart below.

Pointed seven

[edit]

Two styles of the number 7 in 1947 were used in the dies to produce the Voyageur coins. The seven was a tall figure with the lower tail pointing back to the right. [9] On some of the coins, a dot appears near the 7. This is attributed to an imperfection in the die. Six different varieties of the Pointed 7 exist.

  • Pointed 7
  • Pointed 7 with a Double-Punched 4
  • Pointed 7 with a dot near the 7
  • Pointed 7 with a double punched HP under the effigy of His Majesty, King George VI
  • Pointed 7 with a triple punched HP under the effigy of His Majesty, King George VI
  • Pointed 7 with a quadruple punched HP under the effigy of His Majesty, King George VI (The HP is the initials of the designer: T.H. Paget)

Blunt seven

[edit]

A shorter 7 with the lower tail pointing almost straight down has been labelled as the blunt seven. [9]

  • Blunt 7
  • Blunt 7 with a double punched HP under the effigy of His Majesty, King George VI

Maple Leaf issue

[edit]

In 1947, India gained its independence from the British Empire and as a result, the inscription "IND:IMP:" needed to be removed from the Obverse of the 1948 Silver Dollar. However, because there was a delay in new master dies being shipped from the UK to reflect this change, the Mint continued to produce 1947 year coins with a small Maple Leaf by the date to denote they were actually minted in 1948. Eventually the new Obverse dies did arrive, and they began to mint the 1948 dollars midway through the year. The very low mintages of these made the 1947 Maple Leaf and 1948 dollars exceptionally rare, with the 1948 Silver Dollar commanding a very high market price. (Mint condition 1948 coins are worth over CA$2,000 as of July 2019.[citation needed])

  • 1947 with the Maple Leaf near the 7
  • 1947 with the Maple Leaf near the 7 with a double punched HP under the effigy of His Majesty King George VI[9]

1950–1952

[edit]

Arnprior type varieties

[edit]

A technical problem emanated during the 1950s that was to plague the Royal Canadian Mint. At each end of the canoe on the Voyageur Dollar, are four shallow water lines. In the process of polishing the dies, parts of these lines tended to disappear. The result was that there were differences in the appearance of the coins from year to year. There were collectors that decided arbitrarily that a certain pattern of partial water lines at the right-hand end of the canoe should be collected separately and command a premium over dollars with perfect water lines or other partial lines configurations.[10] The Arnprior type configurations tended to consist of 2 and ½ water lines at the right. Any trace of the bottom water line disqualified a coin from being considered an Arnprior type.[10]

Varieties of 1952

[edit]

A modified reverse, with no water lines at all, was put into use in 1952. In addition to removing the water lines, this modified reverse was different because the image of the canoe on the coin had a larger islet tip at the right end. This variety is different from the Arnprior coins in that it was deliberately created.[11]

Origin of the Arnprior name

[edit]

In December 1955, the Royal Canadian Mint made up an order of 2,000 silver dollars for a firm in Arnprior, Ontario. These coins had 2 and ½ water lines at the right end of the canoe. This was similar to the accidental disappearance of water lines on the versions from 1950 to 1951. The 1955 dollars caught the interest of many collectors and it was this version that led to the term Arnprior being applied to any dollar with an appearance of missing water lines. An even more collectible of the 1955 Arnprior, is given by the die break on the obverse legend, with the result being the joining of the T and the I in GRATIA.[12]

No shoulder fold obverse

[edit]

An element that was common in every denomination of 1953 was the two obverses that existed. Said obverses are commonly identified as the No Shoulder Fold and the Shoulder Fold. The coinage for the year featured the new effigy of Queen Elizabeth II. The sculptor was Mary Gillick and she created a model with a relief that was too high. The centre portion of the effigy was to feature two lines on the shoulder. These lines were supposed to represent a fold in the Queen's gown. As these lines did not appear very well, it was commonly termed the No Shoulder Strap by many collectors.[13] Later on in the year, the Royal Canadian Mint's Chief engraver Thomas Shingles lowered the relief of the model and strengthened the shoulder and hair details. This modified obverse became known as the Shoulder Strap variety.

1957 Arnprior

[edit]

The 1957 dollar had a reverse that was considered an Arnprior. The reverse featured one water line to the right of the canoe.

1965

[edit]

Although 1965 would mark a change in the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, the year would offer five different varieties of the dollar.

Variety 1 and 2

[edit]

The small beads on the obverse of the coin define varieties 1 and 2. The rear jewel on Queen Elizabeth II's tiara is well attached. The 5 in 1965 has two varieties. There is a pointed 5 (the point is at the bottom) while there is another version with a blunt 5 (the bluntness is at the bottom of the 5 too).

Variety 3 and 4

[edit]

The large beads on the obverse of the coin define varieties 3 and 4. The rear jewel on Queen Elizabeth II's tiara is well attached. The 5 in 1965 has two varieties. There is a pointed 5 (the point is at the bottom) while there is another version with a blunt 5 (the bluntness is at the bottom of the 5 too).

Variety 5

[edit]

The obverse of variety 5 features medium beads. Unlike the other varieties, the 5 in 1965 is pointed.

1982 planchet varieties

[edit]

The 1982 nickel dollar exists on a rolled thin planchet. The normal planchet has a weight of 15.62 grams, a diameter of 32.13 mm, and a thickness of 2.5 mm. The thin planchet consists of incomplete reeding. Its weight is 7.78 grams, a diameter of 31.82 mm, and a thickness of 1.5 mm.[14] It is believed that only two exist.

History of composition

[edit]

Voyageur

Years Weight Diameter/shape Composition
1935–1967[15] 23.33 g 36 mm 80% silver, 20% copper
1968–1986 15.62 g 32.13 mm 100% nickel

[16]

Commemorative dollar specifications

[edit]
Type Years Composition Weight (grams) Diameter Thickness Edge
Specimen nickel dollars 1968–1976, 1982, 1984 .999 Nickel 15.62 grams 32.13 mm N/A Reeded
Specimen/proof silver dollars 1971–1991 .500 silver, .500 copper 23.3 grams 36.07 mm
Proof/nickel bronze dollars (see Loonie for history) 1987–present Nickel Plated with Bronze 7 grams 26.5 mm 1.9 mm 11-sided plain
Proof silver dollars 1992–2002 .925 silver, .075 copper 25.175 grams 36.07 mm 2.95 mm Reeded
2003–2006 99.99% silver 3.02 mm
2007–2011 .925 silver, .075 copper N/A
2012–present 99.99% silver 23.17 grams 35.9 mm 2.8 mm

[17]

Voyageur mintages and the 1911 silver dollar

[edit]

Silver content, 1911, 1935–1967

[edit]
Year Mintage
1911 3
1935 428,707
1936 306,100
1937 241,002
1938 90,304
1939 1,363,816
1945 38,391
1946 93,055
1947 65,595
1947ML 21,135
1948 18,780
1949 672,218
1950 261,002
1951 416,395
1952 406,148
1953 1,074,578
1954 246,606
1955 268,105
1956 209,092
1957 496,389
1958 3,039,564
1959 1,443,502
1960 1,420,486
1961 1,262,231
1962 1,884,789
1963 4,179,981
1964 7,296,832
1965 10,768,569
1966 9,912,178
1967 6,767,496

Nickel content, 1968–1986

[edit]
Year Mintage
1968 5,579,714
1969 4,809,313
1972 2,193,000
1975 3,256,000
1976 2,101,000
1977 1,393,745
1978 2,948,488
1979 1,884,789
1980 2,544,000
1981 2,778,900
1982 1,544,398
1983 2,267,525
1984 1,223,486
1985 3,104,592
1986 3,089,225

Commemorative nickel dollar

[edit]
Year Theme Artist Mintage
1970 Manitoba centennial Raymond Taylor 4,140,058
1971 British Columbia centennial Terry Manning, Thomas Shingles 4,260,781
1973 Prince Edward Island centennial Terry Manning, Walter Ott 3,196,452
1974 Winnipeg centennial Paul Pederson, Patrick Brindley 2,799,363
1982 Constitution commemorative Ago Aarand 11,812,000
1984 Jacques Cartier's landing at Gaspé Hector Greville, Victor Cote 6,141,503

Commemorative silver dollar series

[edit]

1935–1980

[edit]
Year Theme Artist Mintage Issue price
1935 Voyageur dollar Emanuel Hahn 428,707 $1
1939 1939 Royal visit Emanuel Hahn 1,363,816 $1
1949 Newfoundland entry into Confederation Thomas Shingles 672,218 $1
1958 Founding of the colony of British Columbia Stephen Trenka 3,039,630 $1
1964 Confederation meetings commemorative Dinko Vodanovic 7,296,832 $1
1967 Canadian centennial Alex Colville and Myron Cook 6,767,496 $1
1971 British Columbia centennial Patrick Brindley 585,217 $3
1973 RCMP centennial Paul Cedarberg 904,723 $3
1974 City of Winnipeg centennial Paul Pederson 628,183 $3.50
1975 City of Calgary centennial D.D. Paterson 833,095 $3.50
1976 Library of Parliament centennial Patrick Brindley and Walter Ott 483,722 $4
1977 Silver Jubilee of Elizabeth II Raymond Lee 744,848 $4.25
1978 Commonwealth Games Raymond Taylor 640,000 $4.50
1979 Griffon tricentennial Walter Schluep 688,671 $5.50
1980 Arctic Territories centennial D.D. Paterson 389,564 $22

[18]

1981–1999

[edit]

Note: 1981 was the first year that the RCM issued two different qualities of silver dollars. One version was the Proof, which was composed of a frosted relief against a parallel lined background. The second version was the Brilliant Uncirculated. The finish is classified as a brilliant relief on a brilliant background.

Year Theme Artist Mintage (proof) Issue price (proof) Mintage (BU) Issue price (BU)
1981 Canadian Pacific Railway centennial Christopher Gorey 353,742 $18 148,647 $14
1982 Regina centennial Huntley Brown 577,959 $15.25 144,989 $10.95
1983 World University Games Carola Tietz 340,068 $16.15 159,450 $10.95
1984 Toronto sesquicentennial D.J. Craig 571,079 $17.50 133,563 $11.40
1985 National Parks centennial Karel Rohlicek 537,297 $17.50 162,873 $12
1986 Vancouver centennial Elliott John Morrison 496,418 $18 124,574 $12.25
1987 John Davis 400th anniversary Christopher Gorey 405,688 $19 118,722 $14
1988 Saint-Maurice Ironworks R.R. Carmichael 259,230 $20 106,702 $15
1989 Mackenzie River bicentennial John Mardon 272,319 $21.75 110,650 $16.25
1990 Henry Kelsey tricentennial D.J. Craig 222,983 $22.95 85,763 $16.75
1991 Frontenac D.J. Craig 222,892 $22.95 82,642 $16.75
1992 Kingston to York stagecoach Karsten Smith 187,612 $23.95 78,160 $17.50
1993 Stanley Cup centennial Stewart Sherwood 294,214 $23.95 88,150 $17.50
1994 RCMP Northern Dog Team Ian D. Sparkes 178,485 $24.50 65,295 $17.95
1995 325th anniversary of the Hudson's Bay Company Vincent McIndoe 166,259 $24.50 61,819 $17.95
1996 John McIntosh, McIntosh apple Roger Hill 133,779 $29.95 58,834 $19.95
1997 25th anniversary of Canada/Russia Summit Series Walter Burden 184,965 $29.95 155,252 $19.95
1997 10th anniversary of the Loonie Jean-Luc Grondin 24,995 $49.95 No BU Exists N/A
1998 125th anniversary of RCMP Adeline Halvorson 130,795 $29.95 81,376 $19.95
1999 225th anniversary of the voyage of Juan Perez D.J. Craig 126,435 $29.95 67,655 $19.95

[19]

2000–2016

[edit]
Year Theme Artist Mintage (proof) Issue price (proof) Mintage (BU) Issue price (BU)
2000 Voyage of Discovery D.F. Warkentin 121,575 $29.95 62,975 $19.95
2001 50th anniversary of the National Ballet of Canada Dora de Pédery-Hunt 89,390 $30.95 53,668 $20.95
90th anniversary of the striking of Canada's 1911 silver dollar W.H.J. Blakemore 24,996 $49.95 No BU Exists N/A
2002 Golden Jubilee of Elizabeth II Royal Canadian Mint Staff 29,688 $33.95 64,410 $24.95
2003 Discovery of cobalt John Mardon 88,536 $36.95 51,130 $28.95
2004 400th anniversary of the first French settlement in North America R.R. Carmichael 81,335 $36.95 41,934 $28.95
2005 40th anniversary of the flag of Canada William Woodruff N/A $34.95 N/A $24.95
2006 Victoria Cross Royal Canadian Mint Staff N/A $34.95 N/A $26.95
2007 Thayendanegea Joseph Brant RCM Staff based on image by Laurie McGaw 35,000 $42.95 65,000 $34.95
2008 Quebec City 400th anniversary & 1st French settlement in North America Suzanne Duranceau 35,000 $42.95 65,000 $34.95
2009 100th anniversary of flight in Canada. Jason Bouwman 50,000 $47.95 50,000 $39.95
2010 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Navy Yves Bérubé 50,000 $52.95 50,000 $46.95
2011 100th anniversary of Parks Canada Luc Normandson 40,000 $55.95 25,000 $40.95
2012 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 Ardell Bourgeois 40,000 $59.95 25,000 $54.95
2013 100th anniversary of the Canadian Arctic Expedition Bonnie Ross 40,000 $59.95 20,000 $54.95
2014 100th anniversary of the declaration of the First World War Bonnie Ross 40,000 $59.99 20,000 $54.95
2015 50th anniversary of the Canadian flag John Mantha 20,000 $59.95 15,000 $54.95
2016 150th anniversary of the trans-Atlantic cable Yves Bérubé 20,000 $59.99 No BU ? N/A ?

[20]

Special edition proof silver dollars

[edit]
Year Theme Artist Mintage Issue price
1999 International Year of Older Persons S. Armstrong-Hodgins 24,976 $49.95
2002 The Queen Mother Royal Canadian Mint Staff 9,994 $49.95
2003 50th anniversary of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II (first Effigy of Queen) Emanuel Hahn 21,400 N/A
50th anniversary of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II (fourth Effigy of Queen) Emanuel Hahn 29,586 $51.95
2004 400th anniversary of the first French settlement in North America (privy marked; part of coin and stamp set) R.R. Carmichael 8,315 $99.95
Remembrance poppy Cosme Saffioti 24,527 $49.95
2006 Medal of Bravery Royal Canadian Mint Staff N/A $54.95
2007 Celebration of the arts Friedrich Peter 20,000 $54.95
2008 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Mint Jason Bouwman 25,000 $59.95
2009 100th anniversary of the Montreal Canadiens Jason Bouwman 15,000 $69.95
2010 75th anniversary of Canada's Voyageur silver dollar Percy Metcalf 7,500 $69.95
2011 100th anniversary of the striking of Canada's 1911 silver dollar W.H.J. Blakemore 15,000 $64.95
2012 100th anniversary of the Grey Cup Filip Mroz of Bensimon Byrne 10,000 $69.99
100th anniversary of the first Calgary Stampede Steve Hepburn 10,000 $69.95
2013 250th anniversary of the end of the Seven Years' War Tony Bianco 10,000 $69.95
60th anniversary of the end of the Korean War Edward Carter Preston 10,000 $69.95
2014 75th anniversary of the declaration of the Second World War Silvia Pecota 7,500 $69.99
2015 100th anniversary of the poem "In Flanders Fields" Tony Bianco 10,000 $79.99

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Canadian silver dollar

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Canadian silver dollar is a circulating one-dollar coin issued by the Royal Canadian Mint from 1935 to 1967, composed of 80% silver (with 20% copper) and weighing 23.33 grams, containing 0.600 ounces of pure silver. Its iconic reverse design, created by Canadian sculptor Emanuel Hahn, depicts a group of paddling a birchbark canoe on a northern lake, symbolizing Canada's heritage and exploration history. Introduced in 1935 to commemorate the of King , the marked Canada's first large-sized silver for general circulation, with an initial mintage of 428,707 pieces. The obverse featured the portrait of the reigning monarch, transitioning from the laureate head of in 1935–1936, to the draped bust of from 1937–1952, and then to the youthful effigy of Queen Elizabeth II starting in 1953. While the Voyageur motif remained the standard reverse through 1957, several commemorative variants were produced, including the 1939 Royal Visit issue showing the Parliament buildings in (mintage 1,363,816), the 1949 design honoring Newfoundland's entry into with an image of the ship Matthew (mintage 672,218), the 1958 British Columbia centennial totem pole (mintage 3,039,630), and the 1967 Canada Centennial (mintage 6,767,496). These special issues highlighted key national milestones and boosted the coin's cultural significance. Production of the silver dollar continued annually until 1967, with total mintages of approximately 55.6 million pieces across the series, though some years like 1948 (18,780 struck), with low mintages such as 1955 (268,105 struck), became prized key dates among numismatists due to their scarcity. The coin's discontinuation in 1967 stemmed from escalating silver prices during the 1960s, which made continued production uneconomical for circulation; it was succeeded in 1968 by a smaller, nickel-based dollar that evolved into the modern "loonie" in 1987. Today, Canadian silver dollars remain popular among collectors for their historical designs, varying conditions, and intrinsic metal value, with melt values around $30–$31 USD as of November 2025, based on silver spot prices.

History and Introduction

Origins and Early Production

The idea for a distinctively Canadian silver dollar emerged in , amid discussions to expand the nation's coinage beyond smaller denominations and imported U.S. silver dollars commonly used in circulation. The Royal Canadian Mint requested master dies from the Royal Mint in , leading to the production of three trial strikes as test samples prior to any potential full-scale minting. These patterns featured an obverse portrait of King George V designed by Bertram Mackennal, paired with a reverse showing a central above a wreath encircling the denomination "ONE DOLLAR," the date "," and the word "." Of the three examples—two struck in and one in lead—only these survive today, with one of the silver specimens fetching $552,000 USD at a sale in 2019, underscoring its status as Canada's rarest . Full production of the silver dollar was postponed for over two decades due to a combination of economic and geopolitical factors. The outbreak of in 1914 diverted resources and halted plans for new coinage initiatives, while the saw limited demand for high-value coins amid reliance on paper notes issued by chartered banks. The further exacerbated these challenges, as fiscal constraints and a preference for cost-effective paper currency—such as $1 notes—deprioritized the introduction of a circulating silver dollar during the 1920s and early 1930s. In October 1934, Prime Minister announced that would issue its first official silver dollar the following year, coinciding with King George V's and aimed at gradually replacing worn paper dollars in everyday transactions. This authorization culminated in a Royal Proclamation in 1935, which formalized the coin's specifications and design. Sculptor Emanuel Hahn was commissioned to create the reverse imagery for the debut issue, drawing on Canadian heritage with a depiction of a voyageur and Indigenous paddler in a canoe.

Introduction of the Voyageur Design

The Canadian silver dollar was first issued in 1935 by the Royal Canadian Mint to commemorate the of King George V, marking the 25th anniversary of his reign. This coin represented the inaugural silver dollar intended for general circulation since in 1867, fulfilling a long-standing need for a durable, high-denomination in the nation's . The reverse design, known as the Voyageur, depicts a paddled by two figures—one a European voyageur and the other an Indigenous paddler—navigating through a northern landscape of forests, rivers, and distant mountains, symbolizing Canada's , exploration, and natural abundance. Created by Canadian sculptor Emanuel Hahn, this imagery evoked the country's era and heritage. The obverse features a portrait of King George V facing left, designed by Percy Metcalfe and adapted for Canadian use. Composed of 80% silver and 20% , the coin shifted from paper dollar notes to metal to mitigate counterfeiting risks and lower long-term handling and production costs associated with banknotes. With an initial mintage of 428,707 pieces, the 1935 silver dollar saw rapid adoption, particularly in , where its large denomination proved practical for trade and transactions in resource-based economies. The coin's introduction was well-received, providing a reliable alternative to cumbersome paper currency and quickly integrating into everyday commerce despite initial skepticism about its size and weight.

Design and Specifications

Obverse and Reverse Descriptions

The of the Canadian silver dollar featured successive s of reigning British monarchs, reflecting the coin's alignment with the United Kingdom's coinage standards during its silver circulation period from 1935 to 1967. The 1935 Jubilee issue displayed a crowned left-facing of King , designed by Percy Metcalfe, encircled by the Latin inscription "GEORGIVS V REX IMPERATOR ANNO REGNI XXV" denoting the 25th year of his reign. The 1936 issue used a standard left-facing profile of by the same designer, with the inscription "GEORGIVS V DEI GRA: REX ET IND: IMP:", translating to ", , King and ." From 1937 to 1947, under King George VI, the shifted to a left-facing by Thomas Humphrey Paget, accompanied by the inscription "GEORGIVS VI D:G: REX ET IND: IMP:". The inscription was shortened to "GEORGIVS VI D:G: REX" for 1948–1952 following the independence of . Beginning in 1953 and continuing through 1967, the bore a youthful left-facing of Queen , initially designed by Mary Gillick and later modified by in 1965, with the inscription "ELIZABETH II D G REGINA," denoting ", , Queen." The reverse design remained remarkably consistent throughout the silver dollar's circulation history, showcasing a scene emblematic of Canada's fur trade era, sculpted by Emanuel Hahn in 1935. It depicts a voyageur—a French-Canadian fur trader—in the bow of a birch-bark canoe, paddling alongside an Indigenous guide in the stern, with the canoe laden with bales of goods amid rippling water; the inscriptions "" (left) and "DOLLAR" (right) appear above the scene, and the date below. Minor variations occurred over time, such as subtle differences in the engraving of water lines (raised in early issues versus incuse in later ones) and adjustments to the positioning of the cargo bales for improved striking quality, but the core iconography endured unchanged. All silver circulation dollars shared uniform physical specifications: a diameter of 36 mm, a reeded edge for anti-counterfeiting, and a weight of 23.33 grams, composed of 80% silver and 20% , yielding an actual silver weight of 0.600 ounces. Following the transition to nickel composition for circulation dollars in 1968, the Royal Canadian Mint continued producing silver dollars exclusively as non-circulating commemorative issues, retaining the $1 denomination but introducing annual thematic reverse designs while keeping the obverse as the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II (and later monarchs). These reverses varied widely to mark historical events, anniversaries, or cultural symbols, such as the for the 1967 centennial recapitalization or modern motifs like wildlife and national landmarks, diverging entirely from the Voyageur motif.

Composition Changes Over Time

The Canadian silver dollar, introduced in 1935, initially featured a composition of 80% silver and 20% , with a total weight of 23.33 grams. This resulted in a pure silver content of 0.600 ounces per , calculated as 23.33 g × 0.80 = 18.664 g of silver, which is then divided by 31.1035 g per . In response to escalating silver prices during the , which made continued production uneconomical for circulation, the Royal Canadian Mint transitioned the dollar's composition to 99.9% starting in 1968. The weight was simultaneously reduced to 15.62 grams to lower production costs and align with the specifications of the forthcoming coin. This version remained in circulation until 1986. Circulation of the dollar coin ceased in 1987 with the introduction of the aureate bronze , which replaced both the paper dollar and the nickel dollar to reduce printing costs and improve durability. Post-1987, no further circulation dollars were minted, but the Royal Canadian Mint continued producing silver versions exclusively for collectors and numismatists with varying compositions and weights, often in .925 or 99.99% silver, such as 1 troy ounce for select issues.
PeriodCompositionTotal WeightPure Silver Content
1935–196780% silver, 20% 23.33 g0.600 oz
1968–198699.9% 15.62 gNone
1971–present (NCLT)Varies (e.g., 50–99.99% silver)Varies (e.g., 23–31 g)Varies (e.g., 0.6–1.0 oz)

Circulation Issues

Mintage Figures for Silver Dollars (1935–1967)

The Canadian silver dollar was produced exclusively at the Royal Canadian Mint in from 1935 to 1967, with annual mintages reflecting economic conditions, public demand, and historical disruptions. Total production during this era surpassed 50 million coins, though figures varied widely, from under 20,000 in key low-mintage years to over 10 million in peak postwar output. The following table summarizes reported circulation mintages for each year:
YearMintage
1935428,707
1936306,100
1937241,002
193890,304
19391,363,816
19400
19410
19420
19430
19440
194538,391
194693,055
194786,730
194818,780
1949672,218
1950261,002
1951416,395
1952406,148
19531,074,578
1954246,606
1955268,105
1956209,092
1957496,389
19583,039,630
19591,443,502
19601,420,486
19611,262,231
19621,884,789
19634,179,981
19647,296,832
196510,768,569
19669,912,178
19676,767,496
Notable low-mintage rarities include the 1948 dollar, with just 18,780 struck, which remains the scarcest regular-issue example and typically values over CA$2,000 in Extra Fine condition due to its limited survival rate. Similarly, the 1945 resumption issue totaled only 38,391 coins, while 1938's 90,304 output underscores early scarcity patterns. Production ceased entirely from 1940 to 1944 as a wartime conservation measure during , when resources were redirected to the war effort. Postwar recovery drove substantial increases, with mintages climbing from 93,055 in 1946 to a series high of 10,768,569 in 1965, supported by economic expansion and greater circulation needs. The issue, marking Canada's , achieved the second-highest total at 6,767,496 after some planned coins were melted down. In the late , escalating silver prices amid global market pressures led to extensive melting of these 80% silver coins for , diminishing the pool of high-grade survivors and amplifying collector demand for unaltered examples. Certain die varieties within these mintages can further elevate values beyond base rarity.

Mintage Figures for Nickel Dollars (1968–1986)

The nickel version of the Canadian dollar was introduced in 1968 as a response to widespread of the silver composition coins, driven by surging silver prices that made the 80% silver dollars worth more than for their metal content. The Royal Canadian Mint transitioned to a pure composition to maintain circulation of the denomination without encouraging further or removal from use, while retaining the iconic Voyageur reverse featuring an Indigenous paddler and a , paired with the obverse portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. This change allowed production to continue uninterrupted, though the larger size and weight of the coin limited its everyday use compared to the paper dollar bill. Mintage figures for the standard Voyageur nickel dollars fluctuated based on demand and economic factors, with production peaking early in the series and declining toward the end. The highest output occurred in the inaugural year of 1968 at 5,579,714 coins, reflecting an effort to replenish circulation stocks depleted by . Subsequent years saw varying levels, with a low point in 1977 at 1,393,745 coins amid reduced public acceptance of the bulky coin for transactions. By the final year of 1986, mintage reached 3,089,225 pieces before the design was retired. These figures represent only the regular-issue Voyageur types, excluding commemorative variants produced in for circulation.
YearMintage
19685,579,714
19694,809,313
19704,140,058
19714,260,781
19722,193,000
19733,196,452
19742,799,363
19753,256,000
19762,101,000
19771,393,745
19782,948,488
19791,884,789
19802,544,000
19812,778,900
19821,544,398
19832,267,525
19841,223,486
19853,104,592
19863,089,225
Despite relatively modest mintages compared to lower denominations, the nickel dollars saw limited circulation due to their (32.13 mm and 15.62 g ), which made them cumbersome for pockets and vending machines, leading many to remain in rolls or collections rather than heavy use. This low turnover contributed to a higher in uncirculated condition for many dates, though surface from handling are common in lower grades. The series concluded in 1986, paving the way for the 1987 introduction of the smaller aureate bronze-plated "," which addressed concerns and improved compatibility with automated equipment by reducing wear on both the coin and vending mechanisms.

Varieties and Errors

Pre-1935 Trial Strikes and Early Varieties

The earliest attempts to produce a Canadian silver dollar occurred in 1911, when the Royal Mint in prepared pattern coins featuring King George V on the obverse and a crowned "1 DOLLAR" inscription on the reverse. Only three such silver patterns are known to exist, earning them nicknames like "," "King," and "Prince" among collectors due to their legendary status and the fact that no business strikes were ever minted. These trial pieces represent a proposed that was ultimately abandoned, making them among the rarest items in Canadian , with one example selling for over $1 million CAD in 2003. The inaugural circulating Canadian silver dollars of and 1936, struck under King George V, exhibit minor die variations primarily in the alignment and detailing of portrait on the obverse. These subtle differences, such as variations in the positioning of the bust relative to the rim or fine adjustments in the line beneath the , arose from multiple die preparations at the Royal Canadian Mint. Several such varieties have been identified for the issue alone, though they do not significantly impact overall collectibility beyond specialist interest. By 1947, production of the Voyageur reverse design under King George VI introduced notable die varieties centered on the date numerals. The pointed "7" variety features a sharp, angular tip on the upper right serif of the digit, while the blunt "7" shows a flattened or rounded end, resulting from differences in punch preparation. A distinct variety, with a small maple leaf symbol placed to the right of the date, was struck in 1948 but dated 1947; this modification distinguished coins produced after Newfoundland's entry into on April 1, 1949, avoiding the use of outdated royal titles from pre-union dies, with a mintage of 21,135 pieces. The standard 1947 issues, encompassing the pointed and blunt "7" types, total 65,595 in circulation mintage. The 1948 silver dollar, featuring the standard Voyageur design without major die varieties, stands out as a key date due to its exceptionally low mintage of 18,780 pieces, the lowest in the series up to that point. This scarcity arose from postwar economic factors limiting production, rendering even circulated examples highly sought after by collectors.

1940s and 1950s Die Varieties

During the 1940s and 1950s, Canadian silver dollars exhibited several notable die varieties, primarily on the reverse design featuring the Voyageur canoe, where the normal four water lines at each end were affected by die wear and subsequent polishing. These varieties arose from the Canadian Mint's efforts to maintain production quality amid varying supplies and die maintenance practices, resulting in partial or complete erasure of the lines. The varieties, prominent from 1950 to 1952, are characterized by reduced water lines on the reverse—typically showing only 2.5 lines or fewer—due to of worn reverse dies to extend their use. These coins were struck using both major obverse dies of King , including those with subtle differences in relief and lettering sharpness, though no distinct "shoulder fold" features appear on these George VI portraits. Mintage figures for these years remained modest, with 1950 at 261,002 pieces, contributing to the varieties' collectibility. The 1951 Canadian silver dollar (Voyageur design) is composed of 80% silver (approximately 0.6 troy ounces of pure silver). Its melt value fluctuates based on silver prices, with recent figures around $70-75 CAD (e.g., approximately $74 CAD). Common circulated examples typically trade close to melt value (~$50-75 CAD). The Arnprior variety (characterized by 1-1/2 or reduced water lines due to die polishing) and high-grade uncirculated specimens (MS-64+) command higher premiums, ranging from $100 to several thousand CAD depending on condition, grading, and market conditions (e.g., up to $3,500+ for top grades). In 1952, additional die varieties emerged beyond the Arnprior type, including no water lines (NWL) and short water lines (SWL) on the reverse, alongside obverse and date repunching such as double "52" or repunched "2," reflecting transitional die preparations during the year. These complemented the ongoing George VI obverse use, as the shift to Queen Elizabeth II's effigy occurred in 1953. The introduction of Elizabeth II's portrait in 1953 brought further obverse distinctions, with the "no shoulder fold" variety showing a smoother gown strap on the queen's shoulder compared to the more defined "shoulder fold" type, both paired with standard or modified reverse dies. The 1957 Arnprior variety similarly features drastically reduced water lines, often only one visible, resulting from repeated reverse die polishing that year. This type received limited attention from collectors until the , when numismatists began systematically cataloging such subtle die states. The term "Arnprior" derives from a December 1955 special order of 2,000 silver dollars produced for a in , , using a polished worn reverse die that produced the characteristic 2.5 water lines; the name was retroactively applied to analogous varieties in 1950–1952 and 1957, despite no direct minting connection to the town beyond the order.

1960s and Nickel Era Varieties

The 1965 Canadian silver dollar exhibits five major die varieties, distinguished primarily by differences in the obverse denticle () size around the rim and the shape of the "5" in the date on the reverse, along with subtle variations in and positioning. Variety 1 features small beads with a pointed "5" in high , where the queen's shows a prominent shoulder fold and the reverse displays clear water lines beneath the canoe. Variety 2 pairs small beads with a blunt "5," often in coin alignment (↑↓), and includes a less pronounced shoulder fold. Variety 3 combines large beads with a blunt "5," exhibiting medium and standard water lines. Variety 4 has large beads and a pointed "5," with higher positioning of the date relative to the rim. Finally, Variety 5, the rarest in circulation strikes, uses medium beads with a low-positioned pointed "5," lower , and sometimes faint water lines due to die wear. These varieties arose from transitional obverse dies introduced with the new of Queen Elizabeth II, leading to manufacturing adjustments at the Royal Canadian Mint. In 1966 and 1967, the varieties shifted to accommodate the centennial celebrations of , introducing the iconic goose reverse designed by , depicting a flying to symbolize national unity. The 1966 dollars retained the Voyageur reverse but featured obverse varieties with small or large beads, similar to 1965, often paired with polished dies for proof-like finishes. By 1967, the standard issue fully adopted the goose reverse, with most coins in medal alignment (↑↑), though a scarce coin alignment variant (↑↓) exists due to die misalignment. The notable "diving goose" error occurs when the reverse die rotates approximately 45 degrees counterclockwise, causing the goose to appear diving toward the date, a result of a loose die during striking; fewer than 100 examples are known in high grades, making it highly coveted among error collectors. The transition to nickel composition in 1968 marked the end of silver dollars for circulation, introducing minor die varieties and errors in the Voyageur design that persisted through 1986. Early nickel issues like 1968 show obverse die cracks, such as one across Elizabeth II's cheek or on the final "A" of "CANADA," and reverse varieties including extra water lines under the island or double horizon lines from doubled dies. These cracks developed from prolonged use of worn hubs, affecting small percentages of the mintage. The 1982 Constitution commemorative nickel dollar features a rare thin planchet error, struck on an undersized blank weighing approximately 12 grams compared to the standard 15.62 grams, sourced from a private producer and resulting in weak strikes and off-center designs; examples in MS-60 or better command premiums due to their scarcity. High-grade survivors from the 1968–1986 nickel era are uncommon overall, as heavy circulation wear typically limits most specimens to VF or lower conditions, reducing the availability of uncirculated pieces with minimal marks.

Planchet and Modern Errors

Planchet errors in Canadian silver dollars primarily involve irregularities in the metal blanks used for striking, such as incorrect thickness or composition, which occurred sporadically during the transition from silver to nickel alloys in the late 1960s and early 1980s. One notable example is the 1982 Constitution dollar, a nickel issue struck on both standard and thin planchet varieties due to sourcing from a private producer that supplied substandard blanks. The thin planchet variant, weighing less than the normal 15.62 grams, results in weak strikes and is considered scarce, with auction realizations for MS-63 examples reaching $3,498 USD in 2019. These errors command high values, often exceeding $5,000 CAD in higher grades, owing to their rarity and the historical context of the Royal Canadian Mint's supply chain issues during the coin's production. In post-1967 silver commemorative issues, which continued using silver compositions for select non-circulating pieces, rare striking errors like double strikes emerged due to mechanical malfunctions at the mint. A prominent instance is the 1967 silver dollar double-struck error, where the planchet was struck twice within the collar, often resulting in rotated designs and enhanced details; certified MS examples typically auction for $850 USD or more, with premium specimens exceeding $5,000 CAD. Off-metal strikes, involving silver planchets erroneously used for other denominations, are exceptionally uncommon in this era, as mint quality controls tightened following the shift away from circulation silver dollars. Modern collector-oriented silver dollars, produced from the onward as .9999 fine silver pieces for numismatic sets, occasionally feature strike errors such as misaligned dies in proof finishes, where the elements shift relative to the planchet's edge. These anomalies, documented in issues from the and , arise from die positioning inconsistencies during high-pressure proof minting and are valued in the hundreds to low thousands of dollars depending on severity and certification. No significant circulation errors have been reported for dollar denominations after the introduction of the in 1987, as production shifted entirely to brass-plated coins with rigorous automated inspection. Authenticating planchet and strike errors in pure silver planchets presents unique challenges, as the soft .9999 fine silver composition is prone to post-mint alterations like intentional double-striking or filing to mimic genuine mint errors. Third-party grading services such as NGC and PCGS emphasize weight verification, metallurgical analysis, and die flow line examination to distinguish true mint errors from fabrications, particularly for bullion-derived silver dollars where scrutiny is intensified to prevent counterfeits. These protocols are essential, given the high silver content that facilitates deceptive modifications without obvious tooling marks.

Commemorative Circulation Dollars

Silver Commemoratives in Circulation (1935–1967)

The Canadian silver dollar's commemorative issues during the circulation era from 1935 to 1967 featured intentional design modifications to mark significant historical events, with these variants entering general use alongside standard types. These special designs distinguished the coins while maintaining their role as everyday , composed of 80% silver and 20% . The inaugural 1935 silver dollar served as a standard circulation issue commemorating King George V's , the 25th anniversary of his accession to the throne. Its obverse bore the Jubilee portrait variant—a crowned bust of the king facing left, designed by Percy Metcalfe, with the legend "GEORGIVS V REX IMPERATOR ANNO REGNI XXV" emphasizing the milestone year. The reverse retained the iconic Voyageur design by Emanuel Hahn, depicting a fur trader and Indigenous guide in a birch-bark canoe under the aurora borealis. With a mintage of 428,707 pieces, this marked the debut of the silver dollar in Canadian circulation, blending commemorative significance with practical use. The 1939 Royal Visit dollar commemorated the visit of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth to , featuring the reverse with the buildings in instead of the Voyageur design. Mintage was 1,363,816 pieces. In 1949, the dollar honored Newfoundland's entry into in 1949, with a reverse depicting the ship Non Such, symbolizing early exploration. Mintage totaled 1,363,816 pieces. The 1958 British Columbia centennial dollar featured a on the reverse, celebrating the province's 100th anniversary. Mintage was 3,039,630 pieces. The 1967 silver dollar celebrated Canada's , the 100th anniversary of , and circulated in dual varieties: the standard Voyageur reverse and a special commemorative reverse showing a in flight, symbolizing national wildlife and freedom. Both designs shared the obverse portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, with the goose variant—often noted for its dynamic "diving" pose—intended to highlight Canadian heritage during the festive year. These coins entered widespread circulation, with the goose reverse representing a bold departure from the longstanding Voyageur motif while ensuring compatibility with everyday transactions. Total circulation mintage exceeded 10 million across varieties, underscoring their role in public commemoration.

Nickel Commemoratives in Circulation (1968–1986)

During the period from 1968 to 1986, the Royal Canadian Mint produced several one-dollar coins for circulation featuring commemorative reverses to mark significant Canadian events and themes, while retaining the standard obverse portrait of Queen Elizabeth II for consistency with the series. These coins were composed of pure to reduce production costs after the transition from silver, allowing for high mintages and widespread circulation. The commemorative reverses replaced the Voyageur motif and highlighted regional and national milestones, serving as accessible symbols of Canadian history in everyday transactions. The 1970 Manitoba Centennial dollar commemorated the province's 100th anniversary of joining , featuring a reverse symbolizing the region's and . With a mintage of 4,140,058, it was the first major commemorative in the nickel series and saw substantial circulation across . The 1971 British Columbia centennial dollar marked the province's entry into , with a reverse showing the paddle steamer . Mintage was 4,866,000 pieces. In 1972, the Arctic Peoples dollar honored the Indigenous communities of Canada's northern territories, with a reverse showing an in a to represent traditional and travel practices in the harsh environment. This issue had a mintage of 2,193,000, reflecting broad distribution and popularity among collectors and the public. The 1973 dollar commemorated the centennial of Prince Edward Island's entry into , featuring the Provincial Legislature building on the reverse. Mintage reached 3,196,462 pieces, making it a common find in circulation despite its thematic focus. The 1974 Winnipeg centennial dollar celebrated the city's 100th anniversary, with a reverse depicting a ship in the , referencing local history. Mintage was 2,799,363 pieces. The 1982 Constitution dollar marked the patriation of Canada's , with a reverse based on Robert Harris's painting of the to symbolize national unity and sovereignty. Boasting the highest mintage of any circulation commemorative at 11,812,000, it was widely used and remains abundant today. The 1984 Jacques Cartier dollar commemorated the 450th anniversary of Cartier's arrival, featuring his ship on the reverse. Mintage was 7,516,000 pieces.

Non-Circulating Commemorative Silver Dollars

1935–1980 Issues

The non-circulating commemorative silver dollars issued by the Royal Canadian Mint between 1971 and 1980 targeted collectors and numismatists, featuring high-quality finishes like proof and brilliant uncirculated (BU) to highlight historical events and national milestones. These coins maintained the traditional dollar denomination while incorporating silver compositions of 80% or 50% depending on the era, distinguishing them from circulation strikes. They were produced in limited quantities compared to circulating counterparts, enhancing their appeal in the growing collector market. The inaugural such issue was the 1971 British Columbia Centennial silver dollar, commemorating the province's entry into Confederation in 1871, with a reverse design featuring a sternwheeler steamboat by Patrick N. Cronin. Struck in 50% silver, the specimen mintage totaled 1,832,534 pieces. In 1967, prooflike versions of the Centennial silver dollar marked the 100th anniversary of Canadian Confederation, featuring the distinctive goose reverse by artist Alex Colville symbolizing wildlife and national heritage. Included in collector sets in 80% silver, 961,887 pieces were produced, reflecting heightened public interest in the anniversary celebrations. This coin's elegant prooflike finish and thematic design solidified its status as a cornerstone of mid-20th-century Canadian numismatics. The 1973 RCMP silver dollar honored the centennial of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, mirroring the design of its nickel circulation counterpart but struck in 80% silver for the collector market. Depicting a Mountie on horseback, it achieved a BU mintage of 44,000 pieces, emphasizing the force's enduring symbol of law and order in . Other notable issues included the 1974 silver dollar commemorating the 10th anniversary of , featuring the Expo logo and skyline in proof finish (mintage 32,379). These issues were typically priced at a premium over intrinsic silver value, starting around $5–$10 per at release to account for craftsmanship and limited supply, with availability facilitated through subscription programs that allowed collectors to secure future releases systematically.

1981–2000 Issues

The 1981–2000 period represented a maturation in the Royal Canadian Mint's non-circulating commemorative silver dollar program, with annual issues celebrating key aspects of Canadian history, , and cultural milestones. These coins transitioned from the 50% silver composition used in earlier decades to (.925 fine, 1 troy ounce ASW) starting in 1992, reflecting a move toward higher-purity collector pieces that appealed to numismatists seeking bullion-like value alongside thematic designs. Mintage levels generally ranged from 20,000 to 100,000 for brilliant uncirculated (BU) and proof versions combined, balancing accessibility with exclusivity, and issue prices hovered around CA$30–50 per . The series began in 1981 with the Trans-Canada Railway Centennial dollar, designed by Christopher Gorey, depicting a 19th-century superimposed on a map of to honor the 100th anniversary of the railway's completion; struck in 50% silver (23.3 grams total weight, 0.375 oz ASW), it had a proof mintage of 353,742 and BU mintage of 148,647. Subsequent issues maintained this silver standard through the 1980s, focusing on anniversaries and events, such as the 1983 World University Games in (featuring athletes and the city's skyline) and the 1986 Vancouver centennial (showing the city's harbor and mountains). These early coins emphasized historical transportation and regional pride, with combined mintages often exceeding 200,000 to support broader distribution. From 1990 onward, themes shifted toward explorers and Indigenous heritage, exemplified by the 1990 Henry Kelsey tricentennial (portraying the explorer with Prairie landscapes) and the 1991 issue (depicting the French governor). The 1992 coin marked the era's role in westward expansion, with Roger St. Jean's design of a horse-drawn coach in rugged terrain, coinciding with broader 125th anniversary of celebrations that included related silver quarter sets; this year's dollar was the first in .925 silver, weighing 30 grams (1 oz ASW), with BU and proof mintages around 40,000 each. Later 1990s examples included the 1995 325th anniversary (featuring the company's and a fort) and the 1999 dual issues for the International Year of Older Persons (showing elders sharing stories) and the 225th anniversary of Juan Pérez's voyage to (illustrating his ship approaching the islands), each with proof mintages near 130,000. These coins provided enhanced luster and durability, elevating their appeal as heirloom investments. The millennium year 2000 concluded the era with the Voyage of Discovery dollar, an updated take on the classic Voyageur reverse by featuring a amid northern lights under a futuristic dome symbolizing progress into the new era; struck in .925 silver, it achieved a BU mintage of approximately 100,000 and proof mintage of 121,575. This issue encapsulated the period's blend of tradition and innovation, as the Mint's annual silver dollars evolved into premium non-circulating tributes with increasing silver purity and thematic depth, distinct from the nickel-based circulation commemoratives that ended in 1986.

2001–2025 Issues

The non-circulating commemorative silver dollars issued by the Royal Canadian Mint from 2001 to 2016 continued the tradition of honoring significant national milestones and cultural icons, typically in proof finish with composition (92.5% silver) weighing 25.18 grams (0.75 oz ASW), though some transitioned to 99.99% pure silver by the mid-2000s. These coins featured themes such as the 50th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's accession to the throne in 2002, depicted with a crowned and double date (1952-2002) on the obverse alongside the standard , and reverse showing a crowned eagle symbolizing ; the proof version had a mintage of 121,642. Another prominent example was the 2010 Winter Olympics Lucky , a colored dollar with the Olympic integrated into the design, celebrating Canada's hosting of the games and the tradition of embedding loonies in Olympic ice; mintages for such Olympic-related silver dollars ranged around 50,000 to 75,000, reflecting high collector interest. Mintage limits for these issues generally fell between 25,000 and 75,000, balancing accessibility for numismatists with exclusivity. From 2017 onward, the Mint shifted more toward pure silver (99.99%) formats, often 1 in weight, with themes emphasizing national unity, remembrance, and contemporary challenges, while incorporating innovative elements like selective or colorization in limited subsets. The 2017 sesquicentennial of was marked by the Proof Pure Silver Dollar featuring a modern allegorical figure of as a winged with maple leaves, symbolizing progress and diversity; the standard proof had a mintage of 30,000, while a "Our Home and Native Land" version with enhanced finishing reached 20,000. During 2020–2022, issues included anniversary commemoratives like the 2021 Fine Silver Proof Dollar in the ongoing series, which annually honors military sacrifice with a design evoking poppies and the soldier's tomb at the National War Memorial; this series, running from 2000 to , saw mintages around 25,000–50,000 per year, with the 2021 edition highlighting the of the tomb's dedication amid reflections on resilience. The introduced a redesigned reverse with a new Lady Peace figure standing amid olive branches and a dove, struck in 1 of 99.99% pure silver to revive the historic 1936–1937 motif for modern audiences; limited to a mintage of 8,000, it underscores themes of global harmony post-conflict eras. Throughout this period, the Mint increasingly incorporated advanced features such as colorization for vivid thematic accents (e.g., in Olympic and anniversary issues) and glow-in-the-dark elements in select limited runs to enhance visual appeal for collectors, often in proof or specimen finishes. Current market pricing for these non-circulating silver dollars typically exceeds CA$100 per coin, driven by intrinsic silver value (around 1 ounce in recent issues) and premium collector demand for low-mintage proofs.

Special Editions and Proofs

Specimen and Proof Sets

Specimen finishes on Canadian silver dollars, unique to the Canadian Mint, combine brilliant and frosted relief elements against a lined or background, often described as having a matte obverse and proof-like reverse for enhanced visual contrast. This finish was introduced in annual collector sets starting in the early and continued through the , distinguishing these coins from standard circulation strikes by their specially prepared dies and planchets that create on the background for a distinctive texture. Proof finishes, in contrast, feature mirror-like fields with frosted or raised devices, producing a cameo effect where the designs stand out sharply against the polished surface; these are achieved through multiple strikes on highly polished planchets. The Royal Canadian Mint began issuing dedicated proof sets in 1981, though earlier high-quality strikes resembling proofs appeared in limited formats, such as the 2010 proof silver dollar reproducing the 1935 Voyageur design, with a mintage of 7,500 pieces. For instance, the 1973 proof set included the Royal Canadian Mounted Police centennial silver dollar, celebrating the force's 100th anniversary with a mintage of 119,891 for the set. Both specimen and proof silver dollars differ from brilliant uncirculated (BU) coins, which lack specialized and frosting, resulting in a uniform shine without the contrasting textures or lower production volumes typical of collector sets. Specimen and proof issues generally feature higher levels of and , with mintages often under 10,000 for proof variants to emphasize exclusivity, compared to BU sets that can exceed 100,000 pieces. These finishes were packaged in protective cases or envelopes by Canadian Mint, preserving their condition for numismatic collectors.

Limited Edition Releases

The Royal Canadian Mint has produced several limited edition silver dollars characterized by ultra-low mintages, often below 25,000 coins, to appeal to collectors seeking exclusivity. These releases typically feature innovative designs, special finishes, and collaborations, distinguishing them from standard commemorative issues. Sold at premium prices, they emphasize rarity and artistic value, with many achieving perfect grades in third-party certifications that enhance their market appeal. A prominent example is the 1999 $1 Proof Sterling Silver Dollar commemorating the International Year of Older Persons, declared by the to promote a society for all ages. With a mintage limited to 24,976 coins and an issue price of CA$49.95, this coin was the first numismatic design inspired by a Canadian , featuring an elderly couple sharing a moment of wisdom. Recent limited editions from 2023 to 2025 include specialized variants with enhanced finishes, such as the 2025 , a 1 oz. 99.99% pure silver proof featuring a new representation of Lady Peace, limited to 8,000 coins. The Mint has also incorporated glow-in-the-dark elements and selective in select low-mintage releases during this period, adding visual intrigue for collectors. Certification plays a key role in the value of these limited editions, with many examples graded PF70 (perfect proof) by Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) or Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), commanding significant premiums—often 20-50% above issue price—due to their pristine condition and rarity. For instance, PF70-graded specimens from the 1999 and recent anniversary series frequently sell at auction for double their original cost, underscoring the appeal of flawless preservation in low-mintage .

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  48. https://www.coinsandcanada.com/coins-prices.php?coin=1-dollar-1965&years=1-dollar-1965-1989
  49. https://www.pcgs.com/news/collecting-1965-1966-canadian-dollar-varieties
  50. https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/canada-dollar-km-64.1-1965-1966-cuid-1034675-duid-1269922
  51. https://www.coinsandcanada.com/coins-prices.php?coin=1-dollar-1967&years=1-dollar-1965-1989
  52. https://www.coinsandcanada.com/coins-prices.php?coin=1-dollar-1968&years=1-dollar-1953-1986
  53. https://www.coinsandcanada.com/coins-prices.php?coin=1-dollar-1982&years=1-dollar-1965-1989
  54. https://www.greysheet.com/coin-prices/series/canada-silver-dollars/1965
  55. https://www.coinsandcanada.com/coins-errors-varieties-list.php?error=wrong-planchet&id=1
  56. https://coins.ha.com/itm/canada/canada-elizabeth-ii-thin-planchet-upset-axis-constitution-dollar-1982-ms63-pcgs-/a/271934-36486.s
  57. https://www.greysheet.com/prices/sp/canada-silver-dollars/9038/1967
  58. https://www.ngccoin.com/news/article/5800/
  59. https://www.error-ref.com/error_and_variety_check_list/
  60. https://www.ngccoin.com/news/article/7765/learn-grading-mint-errors-part-1/
  61. https://www.coinsandcanada.com/coins-errors-varieties-list.php?error=misaligned-die&id=1
  62. https://www.error-ref.com/canadian-assisted-errors/
  63. https://www.coinsandcanada.com/coins-prices.php?coin=1-dollar-1965-1989
  64. https://www.coinsandcanada.com/coins-prices.php?coin=1-dollar-1970&years=1-dollar-1965-1989
  65. https://www.saskatooncoinclub.ca/articles/08a_1-dollar_part1_reverse.html
  66. https://www.coinsandcanada.com/coins-prices.php?coin=1-dollar-1973&years=1-dollar-1965-1989
  67. https://thecoinshoppe.ca/product/1971-british-columbia-centennial-specimen-silver-dollar-coin-royal-canadian-mint/
  68. https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/canada-dollar-km-70-1867-1967-cuid-1034630-duid-1270268
  69. https://www.ngccoin.com/price-guide/world/canada-dollar-km-83-1873-1973-cuid-213-duid-381206
  70. https://www.mint.ca/en-us/shopping/category/subscriptions
  71. https://www.coinsandcanada.com/coins-prices-collection.php?coins=silver-dollar&cat=1
  72. https://www.coinsunlimited.ca/royal-canadian-mint-coins-sets-singles/canadian-mint-proof-brilliant-uncirculated-silver-dollars/1981-Proof-Silver-Dollar-Trans-Canada-Railway-Centennial
  73. https://www.colonialacres.com/products/1999-canada-voyage-of-juan-perez-proof-sterling-silver-dollar
  74. https://www.coinsunlimited.ca/royal-canadian-mint-coins-sets-singles/canadian-mint-proof-brilliant-uncirculated-silver-dollars/1999-Proof-Silver-Dollar-International-Year-of-Older-Persons
  75. https://centurystamps.com/2000-proof-silver-dollar-canada-voyage-of-discovery/
  76. https://www.mint.ca/en-us/shopping/archives/2025/peace-dollar-fine-silver-coin-2026-
  77. https://www.coinsandcanada.com/coins-articles.php?article=pl%2C-sp%2C-pr%2C-bu:-determine-the-right-finish-on-coins&id=507
  78. https://www.mint.ca/en/blog/whats-in-a-finish
  79. https://www.coinsunlimited.ca/royal-canadian-mint-coins-sets-singles/canadian-mint-proof-brilliant-uncirculated-silver-dollars/2010-Proof-Sterling-Silver-Dollar-75th-Anniversary-of-the-First-Canadian-Silver-Dollar
  80. https://www.coinsunlimited.ca/royal-canadian-mint-coins-sets-singles/canadian-mint-double-dollar-specimen-proof-silver-coin-sets/1973-Canadian-Double-Dollar-Set
  81. https://www.mint.ca/en/collectibles/sets
  82. https://www.mint.ca/en/shop/coins/pre-2010/%241---regina-centennial-1982
  83. https://centurystamps.com/2025-canada-proof-silver-peace-dollar-1-oz-9999-silver-mintage-8000/
  84. https://www.govmint.com/can-2025-1oz-silver-peace-dollar-ngc-pf70-fr
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