Canada: New Silver Proof Mega-coins Feature A Modern Take On Classic Canadiana

The Acer Saccharinum, commonly known as silver maple, is a species of maple tree native to south eastern Canada and in the eastern and central part of the United States. One of the 10 maple species (genus Acer) that are native to Canada, the silver maple gets its common name from the pale silver-like undersides of its leaves, which appear to shimmer when sunlight shines on them.

The maple leaf has been a common symbol of Canada since at least 1868, shortly after Canadian confederation the year previously. The maple leaf appeared on all Canadian coins from 1876 to 1901, and remained on the penny after 1901. The maple leaf was added to the Canadian coat of arms in 1921. The colour of the maple leaves on the coat of arms was changed from green to red in 1957 to symbolise the country's maturity. The maple leaf became the central national symbol with the introduction of the Canadian flag in 1965. The red colour of the flag and maple leaf on the flag has been described as a symbol of Canadian sacrifice during both World Wars and, in 2025 the design on Canada’s flag will celebrate its 60th anniversary.

Designed by Canadian artist Michelle Grant, the reverse side features an overlapping arrangement of three silver maple leaves - Acer saccharinum, which are highlighted by multifaceted engraving, with precisely angled lines rising and falling within each leaf shape. The top leaf is further enhanced with rose gold plating, which also adds colour to the rim on both sides of the coin. Each of the three maple leaves are further set apart by different frostings that highlight the individual shapes. The most prominent maple leaf is plated with rose gold for a luxurious colour contrast, which further enhances the gleam of the mirror-like facets. Above the primary design is the text CANADA along the upper rim with the year 2025 placed just to the right. The rim of the coin is plated in the same rose gold framing the primary design. The obverse includes a rose-gold plated effigy of HM King Charles III designed by engraver Steven Rosati with the legend CHARLES III CANADA and D·G·REX placed on either side of the portrait. The denomination 100 DOLLARS is shown below the King’s likeness. The rim on the obverse side is also plated in the same rose gold.

Each silver proof quality coin is encapsulated to accommodate its large size diameter and presented in a RCM-branded custom case accompanied with a certificate of authenticity. For additional information, please visit the e-webshop of the Royal Canadian Mint.