This 2018 $20 fine silver coin features the Star of Military Valour.  Throughout its 25-year history, the Star of Military Valour represents a nation’s recognition of members of the Canadian Forces and comrades-in-arms for “distinguished and valiant service in the presence of the enemy.” The star-shaped insignia has been faithfully reproduced on the reverse of this fine silver coin, which serves as both a tribute piece and a celebration of extraordinary valour in combat.  The mintage is limited to 5,500.  As a pure silver coin issued by the Royal Canadian Mint, this coin is HST/GST exempt.

The Design:

The reverse features a detailed reproduction of the Star of Military Valour, one of three Military Valour Decorations established in 1993. As originally designed by the late Bruce W. Beatty, C.M., S.O.M., C.D., the four-pointed gold star is patterned after the Star of Courage, with sculpted maple leaves positioned at each of the four angles. The Star’s colours are replicated by an application of red, silver and gold translucent paint over the engraved elements—especially the maple leaf superimposed in the center and surrounded by a laurel wreath. The reverse includes the engraved commemorative dates “1993” and “2018”, as well as the word “CANADA”. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.

The Star of Military Valour: 

It is the second highest award for military valour, and one of three honours for military valour gifted by the Canadian monarch, generally through his or her viceroy-in-Council