The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) was created twenty-five years ago to develop and apply space knowledge for the benefit of Canadians and humanity. Celebrating the agency’s silver anniversary, the Royal Canadian Mint has released an achromatic hologram silver coin emblematic of the CSA.
Each 25th anniversary commemorative coin is composed of one ounce of 99.99% pure silver and showcases a 3D design of a Canadian astronaut working in space.
"This year marks a milestone in Canada’s space history as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the CSA," said General (Retired) Walter Natynczyk, President of the Canadian Space Agency. "Our many accomplishments have built the foundation for a flourishing space industry and we are absolutely delighted that the Mint has captured Canada’s leadership in space with such expert craftsmanship."
The silver coin was unveiled to the public on Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2014 at the International Astronautical Congress 2014 held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in Ontario, Canada.
"Whether they are flying among the stars or planted firmly on the ground, the Mint takes great pride in commemorating Canada’s diverse and remarkable achievements," said Marc Brûlé, Interim President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint. "This special coin features exceptional holographic technology which is a fitting tribute to the CSA, as it has been synonymous with innovation since 1989".
Astronaut David Saint-Jacques, Royal Canadian Mint Board of Directors member John Bell, astronaut Jeremy Hansen and Canadian Space Agency (CSA) President Walter Natynczyk took part in the coin’s unveiling.
Canadian Space Agency Silver Coin Designs and Specifications
Reverses of 25th Anniversary of the Canadian Space Agency Silver Coins depict a single Canadian astronaut in space, tethered to a Canadarm2 which bears the Canada Wordmark. Completed as an achromatic hologram, the astronaut appears to float weightlessly.
"The hologram lends depth and movement to the design; the astronaut seems to float above the Earth," describes the Mint.
Off in the distance is a cloud-mottled blue surface of Earth, backed by the black depths of space. Inscribed around the reverse image is: 1989 CSA, ASC 2014, CANADA and 20 DOLLARS. A small maple leaf mark can also be seen.
Struck as legal tender of Canada, the obverse offers the Susanna Blunt portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. Inscriptions on the obverse include ELIZABETH II and D G REGINA.
The Royal Canadian Mint offers the following specifications for the collector piece:
- Mintage: 10,000
- Composition: 99.99% pure silver
- Finish: proof
- Weight (g): 31.39
- Diameter (mm): 38
- Edge: serrated
- Certificate: serialized
- Face value: 20 dollars
- Obverse Artist: Susanna Blunt
Ordering
The silver coin may be ordered directly from the Royal Canadian Mint by calling 1-800-267-1871 in Canada, 1-800-268-6468 in the US, or online at www.mint.ca. An affiliate link to the coin product page on the RCM website is found here.
Each coin is encapsulated and presented in a Royal Canadian Mint-branded maroon clamshell display case. Pricing is listed as CAD $119.95, which is about US $107.
