Canadian Coins Featuring the Iconic Oscar Peterson
Duke Ellington called him the “Maharaja of the Keyboard.” He won seven Grammys and a lifetime achievement award from the organization. It would take another page or two to list his other awards, which include a UNESCO Music Prize, honorary degrees from more than 10 universities and multiple awards for pianist of the year, and others. Who is this paragon of the piano? It’s Oscar Peterson, noted jazz pianist and composer.
Louis Armstrong called Peterson “the man with four hands,” for his style, speed and dexterity when playing piano. Peterson is considered a piano virtuoso, a jazz legend and an educator. His parents insisted he learn to play piano at the early age of five, taught by his older sister. They had no way of knowing that he would break into the music scene as a teenager and continue to have a distinguished career that spanned more than six decades. The Royal Canadian Mint is celebrating Peterson’s life with Canadian coins for sale that capture his reputation as one of the most influential jazz musicians of all time.
Celebrating Oscar Peterson Commemorative Collector Keepsake Card
This 7-piece coin set celebrates the legendary pianist through colour, music and coins. The two commemorative one-dollar coins are specially themed to remember his civil rights anthem “Hymn to Freedom.” One of the coins is coloured to match his favourite colour – purple. Canadian artist Valentine De Landro brings the design to life. De Landro is a noted graphic illustrator for many comic books. The $1 coins clearly represent his whimsy in design while remembering this great musician. Five other uncirculated 2022 coins are included in the set, a $2 coin, a Loon, and 3 smaller denominations. It’s a beautiful set that commemorates the life of this magnificent Canadian treasure.
2022 $20 Celebrating Oscar Peterson Fine Silver Canadian Coin
De Landro’s design is also featured on a $20-coin that is sure to be a highlight in any coin collection. The detail in the design is amazing. Look closely to see the bracelet on his wrist. Peterson wore this ID bracelet almost all the time after he received it from Fred Astaire while working on an album in 1953. The music displayed is from “Hymn to Freedom,” composed in 1962. Former U.S. President Barack Obama had the song played at his 2009 inauguration, speaking to the music’s legacy. Peterson was one of the greats.
2022 $200 Celebrating Oscar Peterson Pure Gold Canadian Coin
This $200-gold coin also uses De Landro’s design. It’s a beautiful tribute to the musician and composer who was often called “the King of inside swing.” Most people never realized that Peterson had arthritis that began in his youth. He played the piano with an ornate style but retained control of his instrument. He was inventive and brilliant on the keyboard. Only 400 of these spectacular coins were minted. They will be collector’s items.
2022 Coloured $1 Canadian Coin Celebrating Oscar Peterson Loon
This $1-coin that is included in the 7-coin set can be purchased on its own. It is the coloured version of the coin. If you have a budding musician who needs inspiration, this would be the perfect gift to start a coin collection. These coins are uncirculated. Make sure to find a case to protect the coin from dirt and fingerprints. Peterson encouraged many young musicians to find their own sound to make a mark on the world. This coin is a reminder of his excellence, even though he came from humble beginnings.
Shop for Canadian-proof coin sets with Colonial Acres Coins. We have resources for your coin collection, whether you want specialty coins like those celebrating Oscar Peterson or general coins from a special year.