This is the first ever coloured five ounce pure silver coin issued by the Royal Canadian Mint, and the Mint's largest coloured coin ever issued in Canada. The coin features a striking coronation image of Queen Elizabeth II, and marks the 60th anniversary of her Coronation.Although Elizabeth became Queen upon the death of her father King George VI on February 6, 1952, it was felt that a festival such as a coronation was inappropriate during the period of mourning that followed the death of the preceding sovereign. On June 2, 1953, 26-year-old Queen Elizabeth II took the throne amid cheers and excited cries of 'Long live the Queen!' This year, the Queen's Coronation will be marked by activities all around the world.
The image used on this coin is the official coronation photograph taken by Cecil Beaton on June 2, 1953, licensed by the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. Royal Canadian Mint engravers used many reference images of Westminster Abbey to enhance the details in the background of Her Majesty. The reverse also features the engraved word 'CANADA', and the face value of '50 DOLLARS.' The coin is double struck with a selective proof cameo finish and selective colour. The obverse field is a new finish just introduced by the Royal Canadian Mint, featuring a subtle stippled finish.
With a mintage of just 1500 pieces, this coin sold out from the Royal Canadian Mint almost immediately as it was released