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The 2008 Canada Silver Dollar commemorating the 400th Anniversary of Quebec is a beautifully crafted coin that celebrates one of the most significant milestones in Canadian history. Issued by the Royal Canadian Mint, this silver dollar marks the founding of Quebec City in 1608 by the French explorer Samuel de Champlain. Quebec City is the oldest permanent European settlement in Canada, and its establishment marked the beginning of New France and the spread of French culture and influence across North America. The coin is part of Canada’s long-running annual silver dollar series and was issued in both proof and brilliant uncirculated formats, with this particular example struck in sterling silver to the Mint’s highest standards of quality and detail.
The reverse design of the 2008 silver dollar is a tribute to Quebec’s founding moment, featuring a historically rich and intricately detailed depiction of Samuel de Champlain’s arrival. The artwork shows Champlain stepping ashore with a cross raised high in the background, symbolizing both the religious and exploratory missions of the time. He is shown in full 17th-century attire, flanked by soldiers and settlers with supplies, as they begin establishing what would become Quebec City. The scene is bordered by the inscription “QUEBEC 1608–2008” across the top and “DOLLAR” at the bottom, marking the coin’s denomination. Artist Suzanna Blunt’s initials “SB” appear subtly within the design. The composition skillfully captures the spirit of courage, determination, and faith that defined the early days of French settlement in the New World.
The obverse features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Susanna Blunt and introduced on Canadian coinage in 2003. This mature portrait of the Queen is characterized by a calm, reflective expression and the absence of a crown, which is unique to Canadian coinage. The inscriptions “ELIZABETH II,” “CANADA,” and the date “2008” surround the profile, providing a regal counterbalance to the historical narrative on the reverse. The proof finish adds sharp contrast between the frosted image of the Queen and the deeply mirrored field, enhancing the visual appeal of the coin and its presentation as a commemorative piece.
The 2008 Quebec 400th Anniversary dollar is struck in sterling silver, composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper, and weighs 25.175 grams. The diameter is 36.07 millimeters, making it slightly larger than most modern circulating coins and ideal for showcasing the detailed reverse design. The proof version of this coin was struck multiple times using specially prepared dies to create frosted devices and highly reflective fields. Each coin was carefully inspected by the Royal Canadian Mint to meet exacting standards, and the result is a coin with pristine surfaces and exceptional visual contrast.
This commemorative silver dollar was issued in a number of formats, including a proof silver dollar sold individually and as part of the 2008 Proof Set, as well as a brilliant uncirculated version packaged in a card or capsule. The proof silver dollar was presented in a clamshell case with a red satin interior, housed in a black outer box bearing the Royal Canadian Mint insignia. Each coin came with a certificate of authenticity, affirming its metal content, quality, and limited mintage. The mintage of the 2008 silver proof dollar was limited to 50,000 coins, making it a sought-after item among collectors of modern Canadian coinage and historical commemoratives.
Condition-wise, coins preserved in their original packaging generally remain in pristine proof condition, free of wear and with fully mirrored fields. Coins graded by third-party services such as NGC or PCGS often achieve PF69 or even PF70 grades due to the Royal Canadian Mint’s consistently high production quality. For uncertified coins, the integrity of the original capsule and absence of tarnishing or handling marks are important indicators of premium quality. Toning is uncommon but, if present, may add aesthetic appeal when evenly distributed in hues of gold, violet, or blue.
The 400th anniversary of Quebec’s founding is a pivotal event in the history of North America. The establishment of Quebec in 1608 laid the groundwork for the spread of French language, culture, and governance in Canada. Samuel de Champlain, known as the “Father of New France,” played an instrumental role in mapping the continent, forging alliances with indigenous peoples, and laying the foundations for a lasting colonial presence. The 2008 silver dollar honors these contributions by presenting a tangible and artistically impressive tribute to that momentous year in Canadian history.
Collectors value the 2008 Quebec Anniversary silver dollar not only for its sterling silver content and low mintage but also for its historical depth and symbolic significance. It fits naturally into collections focused on Canadian history, royal portraiture, commemorative issues, or colonial North America. Its strong visual presentation, detailed narrative imagery, and limited availability contribute to ongoing collector demand, and it is often seen as a centerpiece among 21st-century Canadian commemoratives.
The coin also plays a role in education and cultural remembrance, serving as a tool to connect modern audiences with the events that shaped Canada’s development. Through its evocative design and craftsmanship, the 2008 silver dollar invites appreciation not only of numismatic artistry but of the enduring legacy of exploration and settlement. Whether part of a formal collection or a cherished keepsake, it stands as a testament to the historical milestones that continue to define the Canadian national story.
The Canada 2008 Silver Dollar Quebec 400th Anniversary Proof coin exemplifies the Royal Canadian Mint’s commitment to quality, storytelling, and national pride. With its combination of limited mintage, sterling silver purity, detailed historical design, and dignified presentation, it holds lasting value for collectors, historians, and admirers of Canada’s rich colonial past. Its celebration of one of the oldest cities in North America ensures that it will remain a cherished collectible for generations to come.