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- Product ID: 39121
The Canada 1964 Prooflike Set is a key piece in Canadian numismatic history, celebrated for its historical significance and the remarkable craftsmanship of the Royal Canadian Mint. This set, which includes several key denominations of Canadian currency, was issued to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the founding of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. Charlottetown, known as the birthplace of Confederation, holds a special place in Canadian history as the site of the Charlottetown Conference in 1864, where the idea of Canadian Confederation was first discussed. The 1964 Prooflike Set was released as part of the celebration of this milestone and reflects Canada's continued growth as a unified nation. It is not just a collection of coins, but also a tangible link to the country’s past, making it an important collectible for numismatists and Canadian history enthusiasts alike.
The 1964 set includes the full complement of coins circulating in Canada at the time, from the one-cent piece to the one-dollar coin. Each coin was struck in .800 fine silver, which was standard for many Canadian coins of the period. The coins in the set feature a "prooflike" finish, meaning they were struck using polished dies to create a mirror-like effect on the surfaces of the coins. While not as highly polished as traditional proof coins, these prooflike coins still exhibit a high level of craftsmanship, with sharp, crisp details and a lustrous finish that distinguishes them from regular circulation coins. The 1964 set was created as a limited-edition offering for collectors, and the use of silver adds both aesthetic and intrinsic value to the set, making it an attractive option for both numismatists and investors.
Among the most notable pieces in the 1964 Prooflike Set is the Charlottetown Dollar, a special commemorative coin designed to mark the centennial of the Charlottetown Conference. The Charlottetown Dollar, minted as part of the set, features a depiction of the Fathers of Confederation—specifically, a stylized image of the Charlottetown Conference. This design reflects the importance of the 1864 event, which laid the groundwork for the Confederation of Canada. The coin features intricate detailing and artistry that highlights the legacy of the conference, with the dates “1864” and “1964” prominently displayed. The inclusion of the Charlottetown Dollar makes the 1964 Prooflike Set particularly valuable, as it directly ties to a momentous event in Canadian history, enhancing both its historical and numismatic significance.
The reverse of the Charlottetown Dollar features a portrait of the national symbol of Canada—the caribou—against a backdrop of the rugged Canadian wilderness. This design, created by renowned artist Emanuel Hahn, was chosen to reflect the wild and untamed beauty of Canada, which played an important role in shaping the nation's identity during its early years. The caribou is an iconic representation of Canada's natural heritage and is associated with the country's northern regions. The obverse of the coin features the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, which was the standard design on Canadian coins at the time. This design was created by Mary Gillick, showing the Queen in profile wearing the royal diadem. The continued presence of the Queen on Canadian currency reflects the country's status as a constitutional monarchy and its ties to the British Commonwealth.
The 1964 Prooflike Set was struck at the Royal Canadian Mint, which is renowned for its high standards of production and its ability to create finely crafted coins. The Mint has a long history of producing currency and collector coins, and its expertise is evident in the 1964 set. The production of the coins involved the use of polished dies and special minting techniques to ensure that each coin had the reflective surface and detailed features characteristic of prooflike coins. The coins were carefully struck to ensure that the intricate designs were fully rendered, and the finish was as close to perfection as possible. The Mint's attention to detail, paired with the high-quality materials used, makes the 1964 Prooflike Set a shining example of Canadian numismatic craftsmanship.
The mintage of the Canada 1964 Prooflike Set was limited, which adds to its desirability among collectors. The set was issued in limited quantities, and the total mintage of the set was only 5,000. This low mintage ensures that the set remains rare and valuable today, as only a small number of complete sets were produced and are available on the market. The rarity of the 1964 Prooflike Set, particularly the Charlottetown Dollar, has contributed to its continued popularity among collectors of Canadian coinage. Over time, the set has become a sought-after piece of Canadian numismatic history, and its limited mintage only increases its allure and potential value in the collector market.
The condition of the coins within the 1964 Prooflike Set is crucial in determining the overall value of the set. Coins that are in pristine or near-pristine condition are considered more valuable than those that have been heavily worn or damaged. As the coins in the set were produced for collectors and not for general circulation, many of the sets have remained in excellent condition. Prooflike coins, which exhibit a semi-reflective surface, tend to retain their beauty and shine over time, provided they have been stored and handled correctly. The set is often found in near-mint condition, with sharp details and little to no visible wear. Coins that have been carefully preserved in protective holders or cases are even more prized by collectors, as they maintain their original finish and intrinsic value.
The Canada 1964 Prooflike Set is highly regarded for both its artistic and historical value. The coins’ designs, which reflect Canada's rich heritage, combined with the limited mintage and fine silver content, make the set a valuable addition to any collection. The inclusion of the Charlottetown Dollar as the centerpiece of the set enhances its historical importance, making it an essential piece for those interested in the history of Canadian Confederation. The set serves as both a celebration of Canada’s history and a testament to the artistry and skill of the Royal Canadian Mint. Whether appreciated for its silver content, its design, or its historical significance, the 1964 Prooflike Set continues to hold great appeal for collectors around the world.
In conclusion, the Canada 1964 Prooflike Set is a significant and valuable piece of numismatic history. The set's historical importance, coupled with its silver content and unique design, makes it a must-have for collectors of Canadian coins and those interested in the country’s rich heritage. The Charlottetown Dollar, as the focal point of the set, provides a direct link to a key moment in Canada’s history and adds to the overall allure of the set. With a limited mintage and excellent condition, the 1964 Prooflike Set remains a treasured item in the world of numismatics and is likely to continue to appreciate in value as time goes on. Whether sought after for its beauty, its rarity, or its historical connections, the set is an enduring symbol of Canada’s past and its future as a unified nation.