Description
Celebrating the Royal Cypher
The year 2012 marks the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II - a celebration of the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty's succession to the throne in 1952. In 2012, celebrations in Canada and around the world acknowledge Queen Elizabeth II's lifetime dedication and service to her subjects, to the Commonwealth, and to innumerable charitable causes.
The Royal Cypher: A Sovereign's Monogram
A royal cypher is a monarch's identifier, much like a coat of arms. Cyphers have been used by British royals since the time of Henry VIII. They generally feature the monarch's initial and titles, often beneath a symbol of rule, such as a crown. Unlike monograms that interweave letters, royal cyphers display each letter distinctly.
Queen Elizabeth II's monogram, EIIR, features her initials, E II (Elizabeth II), and her title initial, R (Regina, Latin for Queen), below an image of St. Edward's Crown which has been used for British coronations since the restoration of the monarchy and coronation of Charles II in 1661.
The Royal Cypher is imprinted in the insignia of orders, decorations, medals and on badges. In Canada - a constitutional monarchy that recognizes Her Majesty as its head of state - it is common for this cypher to be surrounded by a wreath or garland of maple leaves, symbolizing the unique union of the Queen's power and the sovereignty of the Canadian people.
Specifications:
Item Number: 114556 (single)
Face Value: 20 dollars
Mintage: 15,000
Composition: 99.99% pure silver
Weight (g): 31.39
Diameter (mm): 38
Edge: Serrated
Finish: Proof
Special Features:
- Coin features the Official Diamond Jubilee Emblem for Canada
- Design approved by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
- Hand polished to proof perfection
Packaging:
Coin is encapsulated and presented in a maroon clamshell case lined with flock and protected by a black sleeve.
