2008 Canadian $1 Common Loon Dollar Proof Coin

2008 Canadian $1 Common Loon Dollar Proof Coin

Face Value: $1
Mintage: N/A
Composition: 91.5% nickel, 8.5% bronze plating
Weight (g): 7
Diameter (mm): 26.5
Finish: Proof

In 1987 Canada the $1 banknote from circulation and replace it with $1 coins. The replacing coins were changed drastically from the previous Voyager Dollar series. The diameter was reduced from 32.13 mm to 26.72 mm, the coin shape went from being round to eleven sided and the composition was changed to nickel with a bronze plating. The specific bronze used for the plating is referred to as aureate bronze since its color composition is similar to gold.

The reverse was also changed from the Voyager image to that of a Canadian loon which quickly got the nickname “loonies” by the public.

At the CNA Convention in July 2006, the RCM unveiled its new privy mark to be used on all circulation and numismatic coinage. The agenda behind the implementation of this new privy mark was to help increase the RCM's image as a brand. The aim of the logo is to educate coin users and coin collectors, respectively, that the RCM is minting Canada's coins.

This loonie coin was originally released in a Royal Canadian Mint yearly proof set.

Design:

The obverse design features a bust image of Queen Elizabeth II and the phrase "ELIZABETH II D.G. REGINA".

The reverse, designed by Robert R. Carmichael, features a Canadian Loon on water with an island in the background. On the outer periphery are the words "CANADA" and "DOLLAR". Just below the loon is the year of issue.