2008 5oz $50 SILVER COIN - 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ROYAL CANADIAN MINT

On January 2, 1908 the regal-looking building east of the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa (Ontario) was the scene of much pomp and pageantry. On hand were the elite from Canada's financial and political circles. History was made when Governor General Earl Grey struck the nation's first domestically-produced coin; a 50-cent piece. A few moments later, the first bronze cent was struck by Lady Grey.

For a young Canada, the opening of the Ottawa Branch for London's Royal Mint was a confident step forward, even if control over its coin designs and tools remained overseas. This began to change in 1931 when the Mint was transferred to the federal government and by 1936, the first "all-Canadian" coin designs still used today were circulating.

From the beginning, innovation has been the hallmark of the Mint with a revolutionary coin plating process, purest 99.999% numismatic gold coin and coloured circulation coin just a few of its internationally renowned "firsts."

In 1979, a new state-of-the-art facility in Winnipeg (Manitoba) took the automated production of circulation coins to new heights while the Ottawa (Ontario) location continued to focus on bullion (investment) and numismatic (collector) coins as well as refining/assaying services. Today, 100 years after its official opening, people still flock to the heritage building on Sussex Drive to see the captivating process of transforming metal into coins; the words "Royal Mint" above the entrance along with the Royal Coat of Arms that also appear at the entrances to the Peace Tower and Rideau Hall, echoing its enduring link with the United Kingdom.

Special features:

Only the third time that the Mint has produced a 5oz silver coin. First was the “Four Seasons” produced in 2006. Second was the “Queen’s 60^th Wedding Anniversary” produced in 2007.

This magnificent silver coin captures the essence of Canada's world-renowned mint on its centennial.

Exquisite craftsmanship and finish enhance the majestic architecture of this important heritage building.

Product specifications:

Face Value: 50 dollars

Mintage: 4,000

Composition: 99.99% silver

Weight (g): 156.77

Diameter (mm): 65

Edge: Serrated

Finish: Proof

Certificate: Serialized

Artist: Royal Canadian Mint engravers

Packaging:

Coin encapsulated and presented in a clamshell case lined with flock and protected by a black sleeve.

Launch date:

June 4, 2008