Bluenose launches numismatists’ hearts sailing
Nov 11, 2021
In late October, the Royal Canadian Mint set pockets aflame by adding a new Bluenose dime to circulating currency. For the first time since Bluenose appeared on Canada’s 10-cent circulation coin in 1937, the Mint has re-designed the image of the famous fishing schooner that Canadians have known and loved for a century. This new design by Nova Scotia marine artist Yves Bérubé is being issued in celebration of Bluenose’s 100th anniversary. To add to this historic occasion, the Mint is also launching Canada’s first-ever coloured dimes, featuring a touch of blue that brings to life the North Atlantic waters that Bluenose ruled throughout its illustrious career. All other 10-cent coins manufactured this year with the classic schooner reverse design are also being doubled-dated “1921-2021” in recognition of this milestone anniversary.
“For 100 years, Bluenose has defined the spirit of Nova Scotia. The skill and teamwork of Nova Scotians made Bluenose a world champion, as well as one of the most famous ships in Canadian history,” said the Honourable Hon. Pat Dunn, Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage for the province of Nova Scotia. “This commemorative Bluenose coin will remind all Nova Scotians how our connection to the sea and our innovative spirit has created our determination to succeed.”
On the reverse of the coin, artist Yves Bérubé’s tribute to Bluenose shows an angled view of the famous schooner, under full sail and heeled to port on the open sea. This dynamic portrayal of a ship that always left the competition in its wake can be found in both uncoloured and coloured versions, both of which are also double-dated “1921-2021”. A ground-breaking first for a 10-cent circulation coin, the coloured version features contrasting blue paint highlighting the deep waters of the North Atlantic.
The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt. In all, six million coloured versions and nine million uncoloured versions of the coin have begun circulating.
2021 Fine Silver Proof Dollar – 100th Anniversary of Bluenose Reverse
Earlier this year the The Royal Canadian Mint launched the year-long celebration of Bluenose with a pair of coins dedicated to the famously swift sailing ship. The annual $100 Pure Gold Coin and Proof Silver Dollar share the thrilling story of an impeccably crafted schooner.
(Below) The Pure Gold version
