The year 2015 marks the 400th anniversary of Samuel de Champlain’s voyage of discovery through Huronia. The Royal Canadian Mint is proud to celebrate this foundational moment in Canadian history with this original coin designed in 99.99% fine silver. Mintage is 10,000 coins. HST/GST exempt.
The Design:
The reverse design by Canadian artist Laurie McGaw is uniquely engraved to emulate the famed 17th century astrolabe—long attributed to Champlain—found in Cobden, Ontario. Against this navigational tool is set a full-body portrait of Samuel de Champlain. Through the spaces between the astrolabe’s latitude and longitude crosshairs, we are presented with engravings of scenes from Champlain’s journeys in Huronia, including an image of a tall sailing ship and a scene in which Huron guides assist Champlain on portage.
A stunning gift or thoughtful introduction to collecting for history buffs, fans of geography, and Canadian heritage enthusiasts.
