Last updated on May 2nd, 2024 at 03:31 pm
Last Updated on May 2, 2024 Posted by Colonial Acres Coins
Get ready to explore with us where art and metal come together to craft treasures infused with a deep sense of history. In this blog, we take you through an unusual but fascinating intersection of architecture and numismatics. We, your knowledgeable guides at Colonial Acres Coins, have carefully curated a collection of awe-inspiring coins that not only hold economic value but also form a tangible narrative of Canada’s exquisite architectural history.
Explore architectural marvels such as the Notre Dame Basilica, CN Tower, Pengrowth Saddledome, Canadian Parliament Buildings, and the Library of Parliament, elegantly depicted on our curated coins. Learn more about the beauty, the historical significance and the stories of these landmarks and the craftsmanship of the coins that embodied them.
Each coin is a story waiting to be told, a structure waiting to be admired.
Artistry and Meaning: The Notre Dame Basilica Coin
The 2006 Architectural Treasures – Notre Dame Basilica $20 Hologram coin features one of Canada’s most beloved and impressive architectural landmarks. But, let’s dig deeper into the historical and aesthetic aspects of this coin and understand its true significance.
Established in Montreal in 1829, the Basilica is a Gothic Revival architectural marvel. The design by New York City architect James O’Donnell left a lasting imprint on Canadian architectural history. Over the following century, the Gothic Revival style became intertwined with religious structures constructed by various Christian denominations across the nation.
The Notre Dame Church has seen its fair share of religious ceremonies and events over the years. In the 20th century, the church underwent several alterations that transformed its appearance.
Renowned for its splendid, colourful interior depicting biblical scenes in vibrant hues of blue, purple, red, silver, and gold, the Basilica captivates with its intricate details and statuesque altar, a sight that mesmerizes all who visit. The exterior of this architectural marvel is distinguished by two grand towers that meld classical and gothic styles in a truly innovative fashion.
The design of the coin mirrors these extraordinary features, showcasing expertly blended colours and intricate engravings that beautifully capture the grandeur of the Basilica. What makes this coin extra special is the application of holograms.
A hologram coin is a special type of coin that features holographic elements, typically creating a three-dimensional or shifting visual effect. These coins use advanced technology to embed holographic images or designs, adding a unique and captivating dimension to the coin’s appearance. The holographic features can enhance the coin’s security, aesthetics, and collectible value.
This coin isn’t just a copy of the Basilica – it’s a piece of Canada’s diverse cultural and historical story. From early European settlement to French-Canadian roots and the path to today’s multicultural Canada, each layer adds depth and significance that collectors, coin enthusiasts, and architecture buffs can enjoy.
If you’re considering starting your own coin collection or simply have an appreciation for history, architecture, or numismatics, engaging with coins like the Notre Dame Basilica coin can be a deeply satisfying pursuit.
High Above the Sky: The CN Tower’s Monumental Impact
Imagine holding a sparkling coin in your hand, its gleam reflecting the sunlight. As you turn it, the coin’s intricate detailing catches your eye. What you’re witnessing is a miniature rendition of the monumental CN Tower, artistically captured on a limited edition Royal Canadian Mint coin.
The CN Tower first welcomed visitors on June 26, 1976. Renowned globally for its magnificence, this iconic structure held the title of the tallest free-standing building for over three decades.
Rising 553.3 meters tall, this architectural marvel in Toronto stands as a testament to the dedication of 1,537 workers over a span of 40 months. Designed to transmit signals above the skyscrapers built in the 1960s, this iconic structure embodies a remarkable achievement in engineering and construction.
The 2006 $20 Architectural Treasures CN Tower $20 hologram coin not only symbolizes its towering stature but also highlights the exquisite craftsmanship of Canadian minting.
The coin features a hologram application showcasing the CN Tower’s impressive height and sleek design. Released in 2006 to mark the Tower’s 30th anniversary, the polished coin’s vibrant design beautifully mirrors the Tower’s iconic gleaming facade, symbolizing its enduring prominence in the Canadian skyline.
Collecting this coin is an opportunity to hold a piece of Canadian heritage in your hands. Not only does it serve as a reminder of the CN Tower’s architectural brilliance, but it also is a testament to Canada’s captivating history and the expertise of the Royal Canadian Mint.
The Pengrowth Saddledome: A Stunning Architectural Legacy
As a lover of architecture and numismatics, you’ll delight in the intricate design of the Pengrowth Saddledome coin from the Royal Canadian Mint. The beauty and detail achieved convey the significant role this architectural marvel plays in Canadian history.
The Pengrowth Saddledome, located in the heart of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, stands as a remarkable architectural wonder. Designed by architect Graham McCourt and constructed in 1983, this multi-use indoor arena is an iconic symbol of the city’s rich cultural and sporting heritage. It was built for the 1988 Winter Olympics and to serve as home ice for the Calgary Flames, with a rink that met international standards: a first for a major North American arena. This innovative facility has played a pivotal role in shaping Calgary’s sporting legacy and continues to be a centrepiece for a wide range of events and gatherings.
Now that you know a bit more about this architectural masterpiece you will see why it is a sight to be seen by admiring this 2006 Architectural Treasures – Pengrowth Saddledome $20 hologram coin.
The coin’s obverse holds a stunning rendition of the Saddledome. Its remarkable saddle-shaped roof dominates the Calgary skyline, housing innumerable riveting hockey games and music performances. Immediately striking about this coin is the accuracy with which the Royal Canadian Mint has presented the iconic saddle-shaped roof, capturing its uniqueness and paying tribute to its original designers, Graham McCourt Architects.
This coin is as much a tribute to the Saddledome and the events it has witnessed as it is to the Mint’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in numismatics. Broaden your coin collection with this valuable addition, capturing culture and history in precious metal.
As they say, in each coin, there’s a story to be told. And the story of the Pengrowth Saddledome coin? It’s one of legacy, architectural excellence and cultural richness. Truly an essential piece for anyone interested in Canadian architecture, history, or numismatics.
Canadian Parliament Buildings: A Testament to Historical Power and Prestige
Witness the Canadian Parliament Buildings coin, not merely as a display of intricate architectural beauty, but as a tale of power, prestige, and national essence embodied in these structures. Explore Canada’s democratic journey over the centuries. Travel through time to appreciate the rich history shining on this amazing coin.
- The Canadian Parliament Buildings are located on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. The site has been a focal point of Canada’s governance since construction began in 1859.
- The complex includes three main buildings: the Centre Block, the East Block, and the West Block, each with its own unique architectural and historical significance.
- The walls, floors, and stairs of the Parliament Buildings are adorned with seven different types of marble.
- The Parliament Buildings and the grounds of Parliament Hill provide a stunning panoramic view over the Ottawa River.
- The buildings have been home to Canada’s federal government since their opening, hosting debates, decisions, and discussions that have shaped the history of the nation.
- The Centre Block, with its distinctive Peace Tower, dominates the structure. At 92.2 meters high, the Peace Tower is a symbol of the enduring commitment to peace.
- Tragically, a massive fire in 1916 destroyed all but the Library of Parliament. The library was saved by a quick-thinking clerk who shut its iron doors. See related coin here.
- The Parliament Buildings have undergone extensive restoration and preservation efforts, including a $3 billion restoration project initiated in 2002 to ensure their continued structural integrity and historical significance.
Having acquainted yourself with fascinating facts about the Parliament buildings, let’s now explore some coins that showcase this architectural marvel.
2001 14KT $100 125th Anniversary of the Library of Parliament coin – is a commemorative issue by the Royal Canadian Mint to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Library of Parliament. It is made of 14-karat gold and displays the beautiful Library of Parliament with the dates 1876-2001.
2009 $50 150th Anniv. Construction of Parliament 5oz coin – commemorates the 150th anniversary of the start of construction of the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa. It pays homage to the iconic Gothic Revival architecture of the Parliament Buildings, symbolizing Canada’s rich history and architectural heritage. The Mint also released this design in a 5oz gold coin.
2019 Lights of Parliament Hill $20 coin – commemorates the captivating Northern Lights display at Parliament Hill in Ottawa. This exquisite coin weighs 1 oz and is composed of 99.99% pure silver. It features innovative Colour Reveal technology that unveils the stunning Northern Lights when exposed to black light.
Numerous coins showcasing Parliament buildings have been minted throughout the years. Explore additional items on our website and enrich your collection with these historical treasures.
Library of Parliament: The Beauty and Significance Behind its Design
Owning the Library of Parliament coin lets you touch Canadian history. This symbol of knowledge is not just in Ottawa, but also on the shiny surface of the Royal Canadian Mint’s special coin.
Constructed between 1859 and 1876, the Library of Parliament is a historical treasure chest that houses a vast collection of books, periodicals, and government documents. Its contributions to Canada’s parliamentary democracy are immeasurable and this sense of historical importance is what makes this coin truly special. Its depiction is a reflection of the nation’s intellectual heritage and cultural development.
The 2016 $25 Library of Parliament coin from the Royal Canadian Mint showcases a unique and unparalleled design. Its advanced concave shape, a remarkable first for the Royal Canadian Mint, makes this coin a wonder to behold. This concave recreation of the domed ceiling of the Library of Parliament is an elegant masterpiece, effectively capturing the grandeur and intricacy of the Gothic Revival architectural marvel.
The coin’s design allows enthusiasts to experience the splendour of the Library of Parliament as if they were craning their necks up at the dome of the ceiling, a statue towering overhead, making it a truly exceptional piece that reflects the Mint’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of numismatic artistry.
Just like how the Library of Parliament continues to enlighten the minds of Canadians with its wealth of knowledge, the coin carrying its image is also aimed to shed light on the country’s architectural and historical richness.
Building a Coin Collection: A Focus on Architectural Masterpieces
The coins made by the Royal Canadian Mint are as captivating as the architectural wonders they show. Each coin is like a piece of art, celebrating not just incredible architecture but also the craft of coin minting. If you’re thinking of collecting coins, checking out architectural masterpieces is a great option.
You’re not just accumulating coins, but rather, compiling a miniature gallery of the world’s most phenomenal structures, each with its own unique story and cultural significance.
Imagine being able to tell these stories and journey through history, all from the cozy vibe of your living room.
Similar to the visionary architects behind these remarkable structures, as a collector, you assume the role of a keeper of history. The coins you gather will carry forward the narratives of these marvels. Start your collection journey and be the keeper of your treasured trove of Canadian architectural history.
As you embark on your numismatic journey, Colonial Acres Coins is your comprehensive, one-stop destination for all aspects of your collecting experience. From our wide range of coins that allow you to delve into pieces of architectural history, to our fine selection of paper money, bullion, and essential coin-collecting supplies, Colonial Acres Coins is unrivalled in their commitment to fulfilling your collecting needs.
