When Queen Elizabeth II acceded to the throne in 1952, the Canadian government required a seal to bring the authority of the monarchy to any official documents it might produce on behalf of The Queen, such as proclamations and commissions of Cabinet ministers, senators, judges and senior government officials.

Produced by the Royal Canadian Mint, the "Great Seal of Canada" is made of specially tempered steel, measures 12.7 cm (4.99 in) across its diameter.

Its design shows QEII holding the orb and scepter while sitting in the coronation chair. She is wearing St. Edward's Crown, the crown that was placed upon her head during the coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey. At her feet lies Canda's Coat of Arms as it appeared when the seal was made. The seal's inscription "Reine du Canada Elizabeth II Queen of Canada," is a departure from the traditional Latin and was introduced for the first time in 1953 to reflect Canada's bilingual nature.