Description
Canada’s history is rife with tales of explorers, and the seafaring Captain James Cook (1728-1779) is one of the most storied of all. From the Bering Strait to the Antarctic Circle, and many of the Pacific isles in between, the British navigator charted more terra incognita than any other in his time. This proof fine silver dollar commemorates the 240th anniversary of Cook’s arrival at the summer village of the Nuu-chah-nulth people, at Nootka Sound, which drew more explorers and traders to Canada’s western shores.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
SRP: $59.95
Item Number: 164257
UPC: 6-23932-08848-1
Composition: 99.99% pure silver
Mintage: 20,000
Weight (g): 23.17
Diameter (mm): 36.07
Face Value: $1
Finish: Proof
Edge: Serrated
Artist: John Horton
Packaging: Maroon clamshell with a standard black beauty box
SPECIAL FEATURES
- Tradition rooted in history: issued annually by the Royal Canadian Mint, the commemorative proof dollar is a collector favourite and one of our most sought-after coins.
- Given the popularity of the proof dollar and its recent history of selling out quickly, collectors will want to act fast to add this stunning piece to their collection!
- Highest quality: The artistic journey through Canada’s history features a classic design that is powerfully compelling and rich in finely engraved detail. The hand-polished dies were frequently replaced, and the relief struck as many as three times, in order to achieve the crisp impression on a brilliant field.
- INCLUDES SERIALIZED CERTIFICATE: The Royal Canadian Mint certifies all of its collector coins. Most of these are serialized certifications: each certificate is given a unique number, starting at 1.
DESIGN
Maritime artist John Horton presents an artistic rendering of Captain James Cook’s arrival at Nootka Sound in April 1778. Towering mountains and the timbered headland of Bligh Island provide a stunning backdrop to this historical portrait, all precisely engraved in a superb proof finish and framed by a nautical twisted rope. Viewed in three-quarter profile, a stern-looking Cook keeps a watchful eye on his ship and crew while holding a telescope in one hand, his Admiralty orders in the other. Behind his left shoulder is HMS Discovery, which is moored a short distance away from HMS Resolution, whose crew is unrigging the ship and removing masts and spars in preparation for repairs. In the water, a group of Nuu-chah-nulth approach the Resolution in a canoe, ready to extend a friendly greeting. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.
