Last updated on May 2nd, 2024 at 03:33 pm
Last Updated on May 2, 2024 Posted by Colonial Acres Coins
The Royal Canadian Mint releases various commemorative coins every year to celebrate events that are significant for the people of Canada. In 2020, one coin set marked the 75th anniversary of the signing of the United Nations Charter, forming an international diplomatic body with the noblest of goals: world peace and global cooperation.
The Signing of the United Nations Charter
During the Second World War, the leaders of the Allied nations thought carefully about how to avert such devastating war in the future. Initial proposals centred on the “Big Four” (the US, UK, Russia and China) working to maintain order and protect their respective spheres of influence. However, after this was criticized for putting too much power in the hands of a few, the concept was gradually expanded into the framework of the modern United Nations.
The Charter of the United Nations was drafted in its first form on August 14th, 1942. The final version was signed on June 26th, 1945 in San Francisco, California. With 50 countries (now 193) signing the original document, this was a momentous occasion. It was the beginning of a new epoch of international relations.
As one of the founding signatories, Canada has played a notable role in the United Nations. One of the most significant Canadian contributions was the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by John Peters Humphrey. This document has been central to the work of the United Nations.
Additionally, Canadian diplomat Lester B. Pearson proposed the concept of UN peacekeeping forces to help with the Suez Crisis. The success of this measure has led to the continued use of peacekeeping missions in various hotspots around the world.
The Coin Set
Since the signing of the UN Charter is a significant historical event for both Canada and the rest of the world, the Royal Canadian Mint created a beautiful coin set to mark the 75th anniversary. It is a seven-coin set with two themed one-dollar coins. This keepsake is the perfect way to commemorate one of the most ambitious attempts to keep peace around the world.
Like many other commemorative coin sets, this one includes $2, $1, 25-, 10- and 5-cent coins from the year of minting (2020). Additionally, there is a special design $1 in two versions (uncoloured and coloured).
The special design includes the world map and an olive branch, an homage to the United Nations logo. The reverse design by Joel Kimmel also includes the dates 1945-2020 and the words “UN Charter” and “Charte de L’ONU.” Overlapping the world map are several maple leaves, symbolizing Canada’s involvement in and commitment to the UN
On the coloured version of the coin, the largest maple leaf is rendered in the bold red of the Canadian national flag. The olive branches are in the light blue of the UN’s flag and other symbols. Like other coins, the obverse of both commemorative $1 coins depicts Queen Elizabeth II.
In addition to the coins, the set also includes a collector card for display with the coins. The card folds out to reveal the coins and information about the UN and Canada’s involvement within. This makes the set perfect for anyone who is interested in world history and/or international relations.
Commemorate Moments in History With Collector Coins
This commemorative coin set from the Royal Canadian Mint is a must-have for anyone interested in Canadian history and coin collecting. It is both a beautiful design and a highly accessible way to expand your collection.
Colonial Acres Coins has many other commemorative coins and sets available from the RCM. Check out some of the other options in our catalogue today. We have something for everyone regardless of budget or interests. Then, order your favourites to begin or expand your collection.
