Last updated on October 26th, 2018 at 01:17 am

Last Updated on October 26, 2018 Posted by Colonial Acres Coins

Canadian coins exist in virtually countless different shapes, sizes, compositions and boasting an equally vast number of intricate and detailed designs. Among all of these, though, few have earned and achieved the legendary status that the “loonie” has reached. There are a number of reasons for this, but the fact remains that the loonie is today an outright symbol of Canada and stands for what it means to be truly Canadian. Few people are aware of the historical value this coin – and its simple, but legendary design – hide beneath the surface. Here’s everything you need to know about it.

The History Behind the Coin

The history behind the coin is interesting and longstanding. Created by legendary artist Robert-Ralph Carmichael, the loonie has become a term that inspires pride in Canadians to this day despite being several decades old. The loon design first appeared on the one-dollar coin; interestingly, the design was first entered into a Royal Canadian Mint coin designing competition – and only won second place in 1978. It took a full decade later for Carmichael to receive a mysterious phone call that explained his design would be used – though it was left unclear what it was to be used for.

An Unexpected Occurrence

At the time, it was not a probable outcome for the artist that his idea of the loon design would be featured on the dollar coin. Plans had been previously announced that the then new one-dollar coin would feature the pre-existing design on the silver dollar, which involved a voyageur in a canoe. Upon receiving the previously mentioned phone call, the artist inquired if his coin was to be used in a commemorative edition for the 1988 Olympics. The response he got from the other end of the line was that that was not the case and that his design was to be implemented into something far more important.

A Twist of Fate

Carmichael’s now legendary design was chosen and was implemented on the one-dollar coin for the first time in 1987, and has adorned the coin ever since. But, there was a huge amount of luck – or something else – involved in such an outcome. Namely, Canadians would likely have never heard the term “loonie” if it wasn’t for the fact that the die for the previous voyageur coin was mysteriously lost while being transported. The decision was made to move forward with Carmichael’s design, though a small change was required before it could be released to the public. The original design featured an Arctic loon, but before being implemented this was changed to a Common loon.

Interested in Getting Your Hands on Various Editions of the Iconic Loonie? Check Out Colonial Acres

When you reach inside your purse or pocket for that small, clinking piece of metal, you are actually grasping a genuine part of Canadian history. That is the true value of the loonie and the timeless design of Robert-Ralph Carmichael. Not many artists live to see their artwork handled and distributed on one of the most widespread and popular coins in Canada. There is great value to be found there, which is why you should head down to Colonial Acres Coins if you’re looking to get your hands on some interesting specimens of the Loonie over the years. This Canadian coin has been made from multi-ply plated steel since 2012, and was originally made from a bronze plated nickel. Head down to Colonial Acres and get your hands on this invaluable piece of Canadian history and national pride.