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The 2014 Canada Proof Set honoring the centennial of the Declaration of War is a solemn and finely crafted commemorative release by the Royal Canadian Mint, issued to mark 100 years since Canada’s formal entry into the First World War in 1914. As a dominion of the British Empire, Canada was automatically drawn into the conflict when Britain declared war on Germany on August 4, 1914. This act initiated a profound period in Canadian history, marked by sacrifice, valor, and transformation. The 2014 set commemorates this pivotal moment with numismatic elegance, featuring a selectively gold-plated one-dollar coin as the set’s centerpiece.
The highlight of the 2014 Proof Set is the specially designed $1 coin, which bears a poignant and symbolic image representing Canada's call to arms. The design features a group of Canadian soldiers marching into the unknown, led by a sergeant in a traditional World War I uniform. Behind them, the Peace Tower of the Parliament Buildings stands tall and solemn, representing the government and people of Canada united in resolve. Selective 24-karat gold plating is applied to the lead soldier, drawing attention to the figure and emphasizing the courage and determination of every Canadian who answered the call in 1914. The gilding contrasts beautifully with the silver background, highlighting the detail and emotional power of the scene.
The design, created by Canadian artist Laurie McGaw, is rich in symbolism and historical reverence. The presence of the Peace Tower anchors the scene in Ottawa, where the decision to join the war was formally acknowledged. The soldiers appear determined yet solemn, capturing the weight of the moment and the gravity of their mission. Above the design is the word “CANADA,” with the dual dates “1914–2014” appearing below, along with the denomination “DOLLAR.” The overall composition evokes both national pride and somber remembrance, making it an ideal commemorative piece.
The 2014 Proof Set includes seven coins struck in proof quality, each displaying the finest craftsmanship of the Royal Canadian Mint. The denominations include the 1-cent, 5-cent, 10-cent, 25-cent, 50-cent, standard $1, and $2 coins. While the 1-cent coin had been discontinued for circulation after 2012, its inclusion in the set maintains historical continuity and appeals to collectors who appreciate the completeness of Canada’s traditional coinage. All coins in the set are struck in sterling silver, with the exception of the 1-cent coin, which is copper-plated steel. Each obverse bears the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt, with frosted devices against mirrored fields.
The minting of the 2014 Declaration of War Proof Set was carried out at the Royal Canadian Mint’s Ottawa facility, using specially prepared dies and planchets. These proof coins are struck at least twice under high pressure to ensure precise details, deep frosted reliefs, and polished backgrounds. The selective gilding on the $1 commemorative coin is applied with exacting care, enhancing the design without obscuring any finer elements. The set is housed in a high-quality clamshell case within a black outer sleeve bearing the official insignia of the Royal Canadian Mint. A serialized certificate of authenticity is included with each set, verifying its origin, metal content, and limited mintage.
Only 20,000 sets of the 2014 Declaration of War Proof Set were issued, ensuring its status as a limited-edition collectible. This relatively low mintage adds to the desirability of the set, especially among collectors of military-themed or Canadian historical coinage. The Royal Canadian Mint’s reputation for high standards in design and production further enhances the appeal of this issue. The packaging and presentation are suitable for display or archival storage, allowing collectors to preserve the coins in pristine condition for future generations.
The coins in the 2014 Proof Set, particularly the gilded $1 coin, are struck to the highest numismatic standards. The surfaces are highly reflective, with frosted details that bring depth and dimensionality to the designs. The $1 coin's selective gold plating adds a layer of richness, both visually and symbolically. Thanks to the Mint’s controlled production and careful handling, most sets remain in superb condition, free from blemishes or toning. Collectors who store their sets in the original packaging will find that the coins retain their proof qualities over time, ensuring enduring visual appeal and collector value.
This proof set serves not only as a numismatic issue but also as a historical artifact. It is a reminder of Canada's emergence as a nation through its participation in World War I. More than 600,000 Canadians enlisted during the war, and over 60,000 lost their lives. The 2014 commemorative coin honors these individuals and reflects on the profound effect that the war had on Canada’s development as a nation. The depiction of the soldiers marching past the Peace Tower evokes the spirit of duty and remembrance that continues to be observed on Remembrance Day each year. This blend of artistry and memorialization gives the coin deep emotional and historical resonance.
As with other Royal Canadian Mint proof sets, the 2014 Declaration of War edition is not intended for circulation but for collectors and institutions that value the historical themes represented in coinage. It occupies a unique space in Canadian numismatics as part of a series of First World War centennial commemoratives issued from 2014 to 2018. For those collecting by theme—especially military history or 20th-century Canadian heritage—this set is an essential acquisition. Its status as a first-year issue in the WWI centennial series adds to its significance and collectibility.
In summary, the 2014 Canada Proof Set Declaration of War Gilded stands as a numismatic tribute to a defining moment in Canadian history. With its moving design, selective gilding, limited mintage, and superb proof quality, the set honors the men and women who served and the nation that united behind them. It exemplifies the Royal Canadian Mint’s commitment to producing coins of both artistic and historical importance. Encapsulating remembrance, national identity, and collector appeal in a single set, it is both a dignified commemoration and a standout piece in modern Canadian numismatics.