The shine of fine silver provides the perfect canvas to showcase the beautiful colours that shimmer from this 2011 $15 coin's hologram. Mintage is limited to 8,888 coins. HST/GST exempt.

The Design:

The coin’s design is a touching tribute to China’s vibrant customs that enrich the culture of cities and towns across Canada. China’s “Bird of Happiness,” a magpie, flying above a tapestry of lotus flowers with a selective hologram of a maple leaf at its centre.

The Magpie:

The magpie on this coin is one of China’s most common and powerful symbols of happiness. Its name (xi que) translates directly to “the bird of happiness”. In fact, the decorations at Chinese weddings will often feature two magpies to wish “double happiness” for the bride and groom.

The lotus flower that creates the background on this coin is another visual and auditory symbol for happiness. Its name (lian) sounds identical to the word “continuous”. Combining the magpie with lotus flowers is a poignant way to express a wish for prolonged happiness, luck and success.