This is the first coin in a historically important and artistically compelling four piece series of $20 one ounce fine silver coins paying tribute to the collaborative Allied efforts in the First World War.
The Design:
The design takes a first person perspective to transport us into the midst of the Hundred Days Offensive, the final period of the War where the Allies launched an intensive series of successful offensives on the Western Front, pushing the Germans out of France and leading to the November 11, 1918 armistice. The spotlight is on Canada and its cavalry, with a touch of gold plating on a special insignia that represents a young nation’s pride, accomplishments and sacrifices.
Multiple finishes give the engraved design a sense of depth as the Canadian cavalry charges towards enemy positions, swords drawn, with both man and beast exemplifying courage even under threat of enemy fire. The image is paired with the general service badge of the Canadian Expeditionary Force, which is selectively gold-plated to hint at the pride of a young nation for its fighting force throughout the war and during “Canada’s Hundred Days.” The selectively gold-plated obverse features the effigy of King George V by Sir E.B. Mackennal.
The coin is proof struck in one ounce of .9999 fine silver with a low mintage of just 5,000. GST/HST exempt.