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The Canada 2019 $20 Silver Historical Stamps coin commemorating the Arrival of Jacques Cartier to Quebec in 1535 is a masterfully crafted piece that blends numismatic artistry with philatelic heritage and national history. Issued by the Royal Canadian Mint, this limited-edition silver coin is part of the acclaimed “Historical Stamps” series, which transforms iconic Canadian postage designs into legal tender collectibles struck in fine silver. The coin pays homage to an 1850s-era stamp that itself celebrated Cartier’s pivotal role in the early European exploration of North America and Canada’s colonial beginnings. Through its engraved and color-enhanced design, historical resonance, and exceptional craftsmanship, the coin appeals to collectors of stamps, Canadian history, and precious metal commemoratives.
At the heart of the coin’s design is a faithful reproduction of the 10-cent Jacques Cartier commemorative stamp first issued in 1855. This classic stamp depicted the French explorer who, in 1535, sailed up the St. Lawrence River and laid the groundwork for future French claims in what would become Canada. On the coin, Cartier is portrayed in formal Renaissance attire, holding a scroll and gazing assertively into the distance, symbolizing both discovery and colonial ambition. The engraving captures every fold of his elaborate costume, from his plumed hat to his textured doublet, echoing the fine lines and raised printing of the original philatelic engraving.
The central motif is framed in an ornate rectangular border that precisely mimics the stamp’s perforated edge and classical scrollwork. Above Cartier’s head appears the inscription “CANADA POSTAGE,” while below is the denomination from the original issue, “TEN CENTS,” faithfully reproduced. This central stamp image is elegantly colorized in deep sepia and charcoal tones to simulate the aged ink of 19th-century prints, contrasting beautifully with the high-relief silver surface of the surrounding coin field. The coin’s designers ensured that even subtle elements of the original stamp—such as background texture and facial detail—were preserved and enhanced through advanced minting technology.
The obverse of the coin features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt, accompanied by the inscriptions “ELIZABETH II,” “D·G·REGINA,” and “2019,” the year of issue. This portrait of Canada’s reigning monarch links the historic Cartier narrative to the continuity of Canada’s modern constitutional identity. The Queen’s image is rendered in frosted relief against a brilliant background, complementing the classical feel of the reverse and reinforcing the coin’s dual celebration of historic and contemporary Canadian identity.
Struck in one troy ounce of 99.99% pure silver, the coin measures 51 mm across, allowing for the generous reproduction of the stamp image with uncompromised detail. The finish is a combination of proof and selective colorization, with frosted and mirror-polished surfaces enhancing the dimensionality of both the central vignette and the rim inscriptions. The denomination of “20 DOLLARS” is inscribed at the bottom of the reverse, along with “CANADA,” balancing the bilingual design’s classical aesthetic with its official legal-tender status.
The Royal Canadian Mint limited the mintage of this special release to just 5,000 pieces worldwide, heightening its appeal among both Canadian numismatists and international collectors. Each coin was encapsulated and presented in a premium black clamshell case with a serialized certificate of authenticity and a full-color outer box themed to the “Historical Stamps” series. The presentation materials provided historical context on Jacques Cartier’s expeditions and the legacy of the original stamp, enriching the educational and collectible value of the coin itself.
The historical significance of the 1535 voyage commemorated by this coin is profound. Jacques Cartier’s second expedition marked the first European contact with what would later become Quebec City, a crucial step in the French colonization of North America. His interactions with the St. Lawrence Iroquoians at Stadacona, while controversial in their long-term effects, were foundational moments in Canada’s colonial narrative. The 1855 stamp commemorated this early history at a time when Canadian identity was emerging, and its inclusion on this 2019 coin marks a continued effort to reflect on the country’s roots through its philatelic legacy.
Condition plays a vital role in the value and appeal of this coin. In its original mint-issued state, the coin is classified as proof, with sharp detail, flawless surfaces, and no signs of wear, handling, or toning. The high-relief engraving of Cartier, the crispness of the text, and the rich coloration all contribute to its numismatic excellence. Collectors often seek out examples with original packaging and COA intact, as these preserve both the coin’s physical integrity and its collectibility. A coin housed in its mint capsule within the original case will maintain maximum market appeal and long-term value retention.
As part of a broader series, the coin stands among several issues celebrating classic Canadian stamps and their role in documenting the country’s history. The series appeals to collectors who appreciate the fusion of stamp and coin design—known as “philatelic numismatics”—as well as those who admire high-relief engraving and themed historical content. The Arrival of Cartier coin, in particular, represents a key figure in Canada’s foundational narrative, adding cultural depth and gravitas to its place within the set. Its limited mintage, pure silver content, and detailed historical theme make it one of the more resonant entries in the collection.
In conclusion, the 2019 $20 Silver Historical Stamps coin commemorating the Arrival of Jacques Cartier to Quebec in 1535 is a richly symbolic, beautifully executed tribute to Canada’s early colonial history and its postal heritage. With its faithful reproduction of a classic stamp, expert minting in pure silver, and low mintage, it offers a unique opportunity for collectors to own a tangible link to both Canada’s 19th-century philately and its 16th-century exploration. As both a numismatic and historical artifact, it holds lasting value for collectors who appreciate artistry, heritage, and the enduring legacy of figures like Cartier in shaping the Canadian story.