Last updated on May 2nd, 2024 at 03:31 pm
Last Updated on May 2, 2024 Posted by Colonial Acres Coins
Elsie MacGill was one of the most inspirational people in Canadian history. Not only was she brilliant, becoming the first woman in North America to earn a master’s degree in aeronautical engineering in 1929, but she was also a vocal advocate for women’s rights and believed in championing everyone to become their best selves. The Royal Canadian Mint wants to celebrate her life and legacy by producing the Elsie MacGill commemorative coin.
Colonial Acres Coins is proud to do our part to celebrate the contributions Elsie MacGill made to the world. We stock the collectible coin so you can add a piece of history to your coin collection. Here’s everything you need to know about how this coin reflects Elsie’s life.
Introducing the Elsie MacGill Coins
The Royal Canadian Mins decided to celebrate the legacy of Elsie MacGill in 2023 by releasing a commemorative coin in her honour. Two versions of the coin exist. Although they share the same design, one coin is in colour while the other features a simple engraving on the metal.
Unveiling the Design and Features
The back of the commemorative coin features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II. The year 2023 is engraved above the Queen’s head, while her name and title occupy the coin’s periphery on either side of her portrait.
The front of the coin features a portrait of Elsie Macgill. An airplane occupies the second half of the coin, while the national symbol of Canada, the maple leaf, sits in the center of the coin.
Exploring the Life and Legacy of Elsie MacGill
Although Elsie first became famous for being the first Canadian woman to pursue a career in aeronautical engineering, her fame skyrocketed during World War II when she oversaw the production of Hawker Hurricane airplanes. Her position earned her the nickname “Queen of the Hurricanes”. After the war, she became the national president of the Canadian Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Club. She was also an active member of the Royal Commission of the Status of Women in Canada, where she continued to fight for women’s rights as a passionate feminist.
Delving Into the Significance of Her Contributions to Engineering and Aviation
If Elsie’s degree in aeronautical engineering isn’t impressive enough, she showcased her commitment to the field when she contracted polio right after graduation in 1929. She was told she would never walk again, but she quickly defied expectations by getting back on her feet after just a few months in a wheelchair. During her recovery, she studied various aviation articles and drafted aircraft designs. This knowledge made her an expert in the field regardless of her gender.
Celebrating Her Status as Canada’s First Female Professional Engineer
Being raised in a family of feminists, Elsie had activism written into her DNA. She defied all expectations at the time by not only earning a degree in a highly technical field but also building a successful career. She was a key player in producing Hawker Hurricane aircraft for the Allies during the war. This important position had a direct impact on the war efforts, and because she held the title as a woman, the position showcased her brilliance and commitment to the field.
Learning From Elsie’s Inspirational Story
Above all else, Elsie MacGill believed in pushing people to become their best selves regardless of societal expectations. She bravely blazed an unapologetic path for all women who came after her in the engineering field, particularly those who pursued careers in aeronautical engineering. We can learn from her life and honour her legacy by choosing to embrace life fully and accept any obstacles that stand in our way with grit and tenacity.
Find Commemorative Coins at Colonial Acres Coins
We hope that by sharing this post, more people will learn about Elsie MacGill’s inspiring life story and recognize the immense contributions she made to our world. At Colonial Acres Coins we are proud to be part of this celebration by stocking the Elsie MacGill collectible coins so you can get a piece of history and carry it with you at all times.
Whether you’re simply looking to revel in MacGill’s inspiring story or you’d like to add another beautiful commemorative coin design to your collection, Colonial Acres Coins is your premier destination for all your numismatic needs. Shop now and do your part to help honour an incredible woman!
