Canada 1987 silver dollar Davis Strait

The Canada 1987 Silver Dollar was issued to commemorate the Davis Strait, a body of water located between Greenland and Canada. This strait is of historical significance as it was a crucial part of early European exploration and trade routes. The Davis Strait was named after the English explorer John Davis, who navigated the waters in the early 17th century. The strait is notable for its role in the maritime exploration of the Arctic and the development of Canada's northern regions. The 1987 Silver Dollar pays tribute to this important waterway, which not only played a pivotal role in early exploration but also contributed to the cultural and economic links between Canada and Europe during the Age of Discovery.

The Davis Strait holds a unique place in the history of Arctic exploration. It served as a natural passage for sailors and explorers who sought new trade routes or were attempting to map the northern territories of the world. During the 17th century, John Davis’ expeditions through these waters marked a significant period of European interest in the Arctic, although it was not until centuries later that further exploration and navigation of the area were fully realized. The strait has remained of interest to geographers, sailors, and those with an interest in Arctic research. The 1987 Silver Dollar, therefore, commemorates both the historic maritime passage and its continuing relevance to Canada's Arctic exploration. By issuing the coin, the Royal Canadian Mint recognized the strait's role in shaping Canada's northern identity and its geographical importance as part of the nation’s maritime heritage.

The design of the Canada 1987 Silver Dollar is a reflection of the Davis Strait’s role in exploration and the natural beauty of Canada’s northern waters. The obverse of the coin features the traditional portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Arnold Machin. This portrait has been used on Canadian coinage since her accession to the throne in 1952, making it a familiar and enduring image. The inscription “ELIZABETH II DEI GRATIA REGINA,” which translates to “Elizabeth II, by the Grace of God, Queen,” surrounds her effigy. The obverse design, while traditional, underscores the constitutional monarchy that remains central to Canadian identity, symbolizing both continuity and stability in the nation’s leadership through the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

The reverse of the coin depicts a striking and detailed design inspired by the Davis Strait’s natural features and the maritime exploration that took place there. The design, created by Canadian artist Pierre Leduc, features a scene of a ship navigating the icy waters of the Davis Strait. The ship is depicted with sails full, cutting through the icy waters, which are representative of the harsh conditions faced by early explorers. This image evokes the bravery and resilience of those who journeyed through such remote and perilous waters, seeking new trade routes and mapping the unknown. Surrounding the ship and the ice are the inscriptions “CANADA,” “DAVIS STRAIT,” and “1987,” clearly marking the purpose of the coin and highlighting the year of issue. The reverse design captures both the historical context of the exploration and the natural beauty of the northern waterways, providing a visual narrative that ties together Canada’s maritime history with its natural environment.

The Canada 1987 Silver Dollar was struck by the Royal Canadian Mint, known for its exceptional quality in coin production. The coin was made from 50% fine silver, with a total weight of 23.33 grams and a diameter of 36 millimeters. The use of fine silver in the coin ensures that it has intrinsic value, while its weight and size place it within the standard size for Canadian silver dollars. The Royal Canadian Mint used advanced minting technologies to ensure the design was struck with high precision. The intricate details, particularly in the depiction of the ship and the surrounding ice, showcase the Mint’s commitment to producing coins that reflect the significance of the subject matter with artistic and technical excellence. The use of silver also gives the coin an enduring appeal to collectors who appreciate both its historical significance and its silver content, which can be valued independently of its numismatic worth.

The mintage of the Canada 1987 Silver Dollar was approximately 1,500,000 coins, which made it widely accessible to collectors and the general public. The relatively high mintage ensured that the coin was available for purchase by Canadians across the country, giving them an opportunity to celebrate the historical and cultural significance of the Davis Strait. The 1987 Silver Dollar was not limited to collectors of numismatic items; it also appealed to those with an interest in Canadian geography, history, and exploration. In addition to the regular circulation issue, the Royal Canadian Mint also produced proof versions of the coin, which were struck with higher precision and had a polished, mirror-like finish. These proof coins were made in smaller numbers and typically command a premium in the collector’s market due to their superior quality and limited production. Proof coins are highly prized for their flawless surfaces and enhanced aesthetic appeal, making them a coveted item for serious collectors.

The condition of the Canada 1987 Silver Dollar is a key factor in its market value. Coins in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) or Almost Uncirculated (AU) condition are especially desirable for collectors because they retain their original luster and show minimal signs of wear. These coins are typically well-preserved, with crisp and clear design details that highlight the fine craftsmanship of the Mint. BU and AU coins often command a higher price due to their excellent preservation. In contrast, coins that show signs of handling or circulation, such as those graded Very Fine (VF) or Fine (F), may exhibit softened details and a reduction in luster. While these coins may not have the same visual appeal as higher-grade specimens, they still hold historical value for collectors who are more focused on the significance of the coin than its physical condition. Higher-grade coins, particularly those in mint state or in proof condition, are more sought after and tend to be more valuable in the marketplace due to their exceptional finish and rarity.

The Canada 1987 Silver Dollar Davis Strait remains an important piece of Canadian numismatics, particularly for those with an interest in the country’s exploration history and natural environment. The coin commemorates the Davis Strait as a key feature of Canada’s Arctic and maritime heritage. The design captures the essence of the waterway’s significance to early explorers while also highlighting Canada’s rich history of navigation and exploration in its northern territories. The Royal Canadian Mint’s quality craftsmanship ensures that the coin remains a visually appealing and durable piece of numismatic history. The silver content, along with the fine detailing of the design, makes the 1987 Silver Dollar a valuable and meaningful item for collectors, investors, and anyone with an appreciation for Canada’s northern landscapes and exploration history.

In conclusion, the Canada 1987 Silver Dollar Davis Strait is a beautifully crafted and historically significant coin that celebrates an important maritime route in Canada’s history. The coin’s design, which depicts a ship navigating the icy waters of the Davis Strait, emphasizes the perseverance and courage of early explorers. The high-quality minting and silver content ensure that the coin remains both a valuable collectible and a lasting tribute to Canada’s Arctic and maritime heritage. Whether in its regular circulation version or as a limited proof coin, the 1987 Silver Dollar continues to be a sought-after piece in the numismatic community. It serves as a reminder of Canada’s rich history of exploration, navigation, and environmental preservation, making it a cherished addition to any collection.

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• Year: 1987
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