In 1789 Alexander Mackenzie set out from lake Athabasca by canoe in hopes of discovering the fabled Northwest Passage to the Pacific. His journey eventually led him to the Arctic ocean and disappointment, although the river itself was named in his honour. This coin was struck to commemorate the 200th anniversary of that voyage. Designed by renowned medallic artist John Mardon, it captures the energy and adventure of Canada's early explorers in proof-quality .500 silver. This coin comes encapsulated in the original RCM case