|
|
This page may contain links that result in small commissions to keep this free site up and running.
Welcome Guest! Need help? Got a question? Inherit some coins?
Our coin forum is completely free! Register Now!
commems's Last 20 Posts
| Commems Collection Canadian: 1977 Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee - Silver Dollar
|
|
commems
CCF Master Historian of USA Commemoratives
United States
11023 Posts |
 Posted Yesterday 12:00 pm
|
ADDENDUM
This is NOT the case referenced by mice45 (I'm still looking!  ), but is another case that sometimes is available with a 1977 QEII Silver Jubilee commemorative Silver Dollar.
Over the years I've typically seen it referred to as a VIP case for presentation to foreign dignitaries who were visiting Canada. I haven't yet, however, been able to independently verify that it is an official product of the Mint and/or used in this manner. (If someone can document its provenance and use, please add to the conversation!)
The case is a maroon velour clamshell with a metallic Canadian Coat of Arms affixed to its outer top/lid. Inside, the Silver Dollar is seated in a well within a maroon tray. The interior side of the clamshell's lid is a white satin material; it does not have any inscriptions. The case was inserted into a white, textured cardboard box.
If it is a VIP Presentation case, its production would be correspondingly limited - perhaps no more than 500 - but, as I have not yet found documented production numbers, it is impossible for me to give an exact figure.
Considering the event being commemorated by the SD - QEII's Silver Jubilee - it would not be a surprise to learn that the coin was used as a gift to VIPs and that a special case was prepared for the purpose. The Mint had done it previously (I illustrated and/or described such examples here: 1973 RCMP Centennial Silver Dollar and here: 1976 Library Of Parliament Silver Dollar With VIP Case.)
1977 Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee - VIP Case - Outer Box
Note: My box shows some staining/discoloration.
1977 Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee - VIP Case - Clamshell / Exterior
1977 Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee - VIP Case - Clamshell / Interior
|
| | Forum: Canadian Commemoratives and Non-Circulating Coinage (NCLT) |
|
| Commems Collection Modern: What If? 1996 United Nations 50th Anniversary Of Founding
|
|
commems
CCF Master Historian of USA Commemoratives
United States
11023 Posts |
Posted 02/26/2025 10:22 am
|
In a previous post, I made mention of a failed attempt at securing commemorative coins to mark the 50th Anniversary of the United Nations and Harry S. Truman's Role in its founding.
(Read it here: - 1995 What If? Citizens Commem Coin Advisory Committee Recommendations)
President Truman, following in the footsteps of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, was a vocal advocate for the United Nations. He attended the final day of the United Nations Conference that was held in San Francisco, California in June 1945.
At the conclusion of the Conference, President Truman offered:
"The Charter of the United Nations which you have just signed is a solid structure upon which we can build a better world. History will honor you for it. Between the victory in Europe and the final victory, in this most destructive of all wars, you have won a victory against war itself. With this Charter the world can begin to look forward to the time when all worthy human beings may be permitted to live decently as free people."
The US was among 50 countries that signed the Charter on June 26, 1945. Truman addressed the Senate on July 2, 1945, in which he called for the Charter's ratification. During his Senate address, President Truman stated:
"The Charter which I bring you has been written in the name of "We, the peoples of the United Nations." Those peoples--stretching all over the face of the earth--will watch our action here with great concern and high hope. For they look to this body of elected representatives of the people of the United States to take the lead in approving the Charter and the Statute and pointing the way for the rest of the world.
"This Charter and the principles upon which it is based are not new to the United States Senate or to the House of Representatives.
...
"In your deliberations, I hope you will consider not only the words of the Charter but also the spirit which gives it meaning and life.
"The objectives of this Charter are clear.
"It seeks to prevent future wars.
"It seeks to settle international disputes by peaceful means, in conformity with the principles of justice.
"It seeks to promote worldwide progress and better standards of living.
"It seeks to achieve universal respect for, and observance of, human rights and fundamental freedoms for all men and women--without distinction as to race, language, or religion.
"It seeks to remove the economic and social causes of international conflict and unrest.
"It is the product of many hands and many influences. It comes from the reality of experience in a world where one generation has failed twice to keep the peace. The lessons of that experience have been written into this document.
"The choice before the Senate is now clear. The choice is not between this Charter and something else. It is between this Charter and no Charter at all.
...
"This Charter points down the only road to enduring peace. There is no other. Let us not hesitate to join hands with the peace-loving peoples of the earth and start down that road, with God's help, and with firm resolve that we can and will reach our goal.
"I urge ratification. I urge prompt ratification."
The US Senate ratified the Charter on July 28, 1945; Truman signed the ratified Charter on August 8, 1945.
The proposed coin program included authorization for the striking of up to 75,000 Gold Half Eagles and up to 350,000 Silver Dollars.
(You can read about the bill in which the UN coin program was included here:
- 1995 What If? Citizens Commem Coin Advisory Committee Recommendations)
Designs for the coins were not specified beyond a general "emblematic" statement that mimicked the coin program's purpose: "emblematic of the 50th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations and the role of President Harry S Truman in the founding of the United Nations."
The proposed Gold Half Eagle was to carry a surcharge of $35 per coin; the issue price of Silver Dollar was to include a $10 surcharge. Of the surcharge funds collected, 50% were to be paid to the Harry S Truman Library Foundation "for the purpose of supporting and maintaining the Harry S Truman Library," with the other 50% to be paid to the United Nations Association. The Association was to use the funds "for the purpose of assisting with educational activities, such as high school and college model United Nations' programs and other grassroots activities, that highlight the United Nations and the role of the United States in that world body."
As I discussed in my previous post, the bill that included the UN 50th Anniversary coin program was not passed by Congress, and no other bill that included the program was ever passed. So, though several other countries issued UN 50th Anniversary commemorative coins - Argentina, Australia, Cuba, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Russia, South Korea, Sweden and the United Kingdom, among others - the US remained on the sidelines. Considering the US' prominent role in establishing the UN, I suspect the coin proposal's failure may have fell victim to "backroom" anti-UN politics, but that's not confirmed by the records of Congress.
For other of my posts about commemorative coins and medals, including more What If? stories, see: Commems Collection.
|
| | Forum: US Commemoratives and Non-Circulating Coinage (NCLT) Including Grading, Varieties, and Errors |
| |
| Commems Collection Canadian: 1977 Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee - Governors General Medallions
|
|
commems
CCF Master Historian of USA Commemoratives
United States
11023 Posts |
Posted 02/26/2025 07:45 am
|
In addition to the commemorative Silver Dollar it struck to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee (i.e., 25th Anniversary of her Accession to the Throne), the Royal Canadian Mint also struck commemorative medallions (silver and copper-nickel) in honor of the four Governors General who had served under QEII to that point: His Excellency, Right Honorable Jules Leger (1974-79); Right Honourable Roland Michener (1967-74), the late Right Honourable Georges Vanier (1959-67) and the late Right Honourable Vincent Massey (1952-59) (in reverse chronological order from current to QEII's first Governor General).
What does Canada's Governor General do?
From the Governor General of Canada web site:
"The governor general represents Canada in domestic and international ceremonies and events. Here in Canada, the governor general strengthens the country's ties with other nations by officially welcoming new ambassadors, as well as new high commissioners for which The King is not head of State. The governor general also plays host to foreign heads of State and members of the Royal Family during their visits to Canada, at Rideau Hall in Ottawa and the Citadelle of Québec. The governor general also signs diplomatic letters for outgoing Canadian ambassadors and high commissioners, who represent the country on the world stage.
"The governor general also plays an important role in international relations by travelling abroad on State and official visits. During State visits, the governor general is often accompanied by a delegation of prominent Canadians representing various areas of expertise. The goal in conducting international visits is to promote Canada, deepen people-to-people ties and strengthen Canada's relationships with international partners."
A ceremony was held within Canada's Parliament Buildings to present medals to each of the Governors General (or their representative) and to kick off the exhibition "Canada's Four Canadian Governors General." The Honourable Jean Pierre Goyer, Minister of Supply and Services (responsible for the Royal Canadian Mint) presided over the ceremonies.
As part of his opening remarks, Minister Goyer stated:
"It is also fitting on this happy occasion [the Silver Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth] to strike a medallion that pays tribute to the four men who served as the Queen's representative in our country during the 25 years of her reign...All of these men had long and distinguished public careers before taking on the office, and it is universally agreed that they were outstanding choices."
He continued,
"the common characteristic of their tenures was a dedication to, and profound understanding of the duties and obligations of that office. Each of these men travelled the length and breadth of our vast country and by their words and actions demonstrated to all Canadians the significant and important role the vice regal head of state can play in modern democracy"
(If you'd like to learn more about the Governors General honored on the medal (and others who have served), see the Governor General of Canada web site:
- Former Governors General
The obverse of the medals feature the Arnold Machin portrait of Queen Elizabeth II at the center with the inscriptions "GOD SAVE THE QUEEN / DIEU PROTECT LA REINE" encircling at he rim. Flanking the Queen's portrait are "25 Years / Ans" at left and Elizabeth II's Royal Cypher at right.
The medal's reverse features four small portraits - one of each honored Governor General - with the inscriptions "GOVERNORS GENERAL" at the rim at left and "GOUVERNEURS GENERAUX" at the rim at right. "CANADA" is above the portraits, "1952-1977" is found below. The names of the Governors General, and the years of their service, are seen between the portraits with a maple leaf at center.
The Silver Medal was struck on a 0.925 fine silver (sterling) planchet with a Proof finish. The Copper-Nickel version (75% Cu/25% Ni) was struck as a satiny/matte Brilliant Uncirculated piece. Each of the medals is 45 millimeters in diameter and has a plain edge. The silver version has a weight of 48.6 grams; the CuNi version has a weight of 42 grams.
The Silver Medal had an issue price of $17.00 (CAD); the CuNi medal was issued at $3.00. I have not been able to locate mintage figures for the two medals other than "Limited" for the Silver Medal and "Unlimited" for the CuNi Medal. As would be expected, the Silver Medal is less frequently encountered in the marketplace (vs. the CuNi version); the two-piece set with original insert is also infrequently encountered. I would suggest a mintage in the range of 10-20K for the Silver Medal and 25K-50K for the CuNi Medal. (If anyone has documented numbers for the mintages of the medals, please post below!)
1977 Four Governors General Medal - Copper-Nickel Version
 
1977 Four Governors General Medal - Insert Card / Two-Piece Set - Front
1977 Four Governors General Medal - Insert Card / Two-Piece Set - Back
1977 Four Governors General Medal - Two-Piece Set in Case
For other of my posts about commemorative coins and medals, including more stories about Canadian topics, see: Commems Collection.
|
| | Forum: Canadian Commemoratives and Non-Circulating Coinage (NCLT) |
| |
| Commems Collection Modern: 1995 What If? Citizens Commem Coin Advisory Committee Recommendations
|
|
commems
CCF Master Historian of USA Commemoratives
United States
11023 Posts |
Posted 02/25/2025 11:38 am
|
In May 1995, Norman Y. Mineta (D-CA) introduced a bill in the House of Representatives that required "the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in commemoration of the subjects recommended by the Citizens Commemorative Coin Advisory Committee." Upon its introduction, the bill was referred to the House Committee on Banking and Financial Services, with a subsequent referral to the Banking Committee's Subcommittee on Domestic and International Monetary Policy.
A quick look at the title of Mineta's bill might lead a reader to assume the intent of the bill was to ensure that the Citizens Commemorative Coin Advisory Committee (CCCAC) always played a central role in the future course of the modern US commemorative coin series. This was not the core intent of the bill, however.
The bill's Short Title more accurately revealed its true purpose: "United States Commemorative Coins Act of 1995."
The bill called for the striking of six different commemorative coin programs:
1. The Bicentennial of United States Gold Coinage
2. The 50th Anniversary of the Founding of the United Nations and Harry S. Truman's Role
3. The 150th Anniversary of the Smithsonian Institution
4. The opening of the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial in Washington, DC
5. The 125th Anniversary of Yellowstone National Park
6. The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC
Note: The CCCAC did support the coin programs included in the bill.
The bill also included language that mandated that the CCCAC review all coin designs. It did not, however, give the CCCAC final authority over design selection or any type of veto power in terms of potential designs. The legislation truly kept the CCCAC in an "advisory" role.
The bill was introduced with eight co-sponsors, and eventually gathered the support of 126 co-sponsors. This level of support was not enough, however, to move the bill to full consideration. It stalled, but was followed by a similar bill later in the same Congress which was authorized, approved and signed into law.
Coins #3 through #6 (above) were ultimately passed via other legislation. Programs #1 and #2 failed to gain approval.
I previously discussed the US Gold Coinage proposal here:
- What If? 1995 US Gold Coinage Bicentennial
(I'm planning a look at the United Nations coin in an upcoming post.)
For other of my posts about commemorative coins and medals, including more What If? stories, see: Commems Collection.
|
| | Forum: US Commemoratives and Non-Circulating Coinage (NCLT) Including Grading, Varieties, and Errors |
| |
| Commems Collection Classic: Quick Bits 132 - Illinois Statehood Centennial / Interpreting Die Life
|
|
commems
CCF Master Historian of USA Commemoratives
United States
11023 Posts |
Posted 02/24/2025 11:10 am
|
An interesting tidbit from the 1918 Report of the Director of the Mint:
Illinois Statehood Centennial Half Dollar
- Obverse Dies Used: 4
- Reverse Dies Used: 3
- Average Coins Struck per Die - Obverse: 25,346
- Average Coins Struck per Die - Reverse: 33,797
From these numbers, the total coins struck from the dies can be calculated:
- Total Coins Struck - Obverse: 101,384
- Total Coins Struck - Reverse: 101,391
Note: I'm going to ignore the minor difference between the Total Coins Struck for the Obverse Die vs. Reverse Die in my discussion. I chalk it up to some combination of rounding of reported Die Life Averages, a differential in Quality Control Rejects, and/or some other unimportant reason - the difference (7) is inconsequential and not an issue.
The Illinois Centennial Committee received 100,000 half dollars, the Mint reserved 58 for assay purposes and three Proof coins are reported to have been struck. These figures total 100,061 coins - Where are the approximately 1,300 additional half dollars that were struck?
The difference between the "struck" and "reported" numbers is approximately 1,325; this figure is ~1.33% over the target mintage, which is within the Mint's acceptable range for mis-strikes/errors and general overage. Coins, in whatever shape, beyond the 100,061 noted above were almost certainly melted and their silver reclaimed for other coinage - I've not seen documentation for "extra" coins being sent to the Centennial Committee beyond their Congressionally-authorized limit.
1918 Illinois Statehood Centennial Half Dollar
 
|
| | Forum: US Commemoratives and Non-Circulating Coinage (NCLT) Including Grading, Varieties, and Errors |
|
| Commems Collection Classic: 1937 Roanoke Colony Memorial - Historical Tidbits #01
|
|
commems
CCF Master Historian of USA Commemoratives
United States
11023 Posts |
Posted 02/21/2025 12:58 pm
|
I've gathered a number of "news briefs" about the 1937 Roanoke Colony Memorial Half Dollar over the years. None rise to the level of an in-depth, standalone story, but I find all are interesting supplements to the coin's overall history. Here are a few such "supplements":
Historical Tidbit #1
The Roanoke Colony Memorial Association announced, on December 16, 1936, that the first three Roanoke half dollars to be struck would be sent to US President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the UK's King George VI and the former British monarch, King Edward VIII. Of course, what makes this announcement most interesting is that Edward had abdicated the throne just days before, on December 10, 1936.
The Association also stated that Edward was to be invited to the Roanoke Colony's 350th Anniversary celebration that was to be held in August 1937. From what I can tell, Edward did not attend the August ceremonies. He and his wife - the former Bessie Wallace Warfield - did, however, travel to Germany in October 1937 to tour the nation and would meet Adolf Hitler during his visit (along with other German VIPs).
Historical Tidbit #2
It was announced on January 21, 1937 by the Roanoke Colony Memorial Association that "Enough of the Sir Walter Raleigh-Virginia Dare issue of commemorative half-dollars have been sold to pay for the entire issue."
D. Bradford Fearing, Secretary of the Roanoke Colony Memorial Association, announced that "$17,000 had already been received from sale of the coins." At $1.50 per coin (not including postage/handling charges), $17,000 equated to orders for >11,300 coins. (The Association's initial order of 25,000 coins required the US Mint to be paid $12,500 - plus die charges and delivery costs.)
Historical Tidbit #3
In February 1937, it was reported by the Roanoke Colony Memorial Association that sales of the "Virginia Dare-Sir Walter Raleigh Memorial coin" were continuing at a "rapid rate" with fulfillment reaching approximately 100 coins per day.
The Association also noted that orders were being received "from practically every state in the union and if the sale continues as at present the supply will be exhausted within a short time." Such comments were applicable to the original batch of coins received by the Association. Much of its second order of 25,000 coins went unsold, with 21,000 being returned to the US Mint to be melted.
1937 Roanoke Colony Memorial Half Dollar
 
I've got additional Roanoke half dollar tidbits, but I'll save them for a future post!
A brief, sales-related story for the Roanoke can be found here:
- 1937 Roanoke Colony Memorial - Holding Coins For NC Residents
For other of my posts about commemorative coins and medals, including more stories about the Roanoke Colony half dollar, see: Commems Collection.
|
| | Forum: US Commemoratives and Non-Circulating Coinage (NCLT) Including Grading, Varieties, and Errors |
| |
|
| Coin Community Forum |
© 2005 - 2025 Coin Community Forums |
| It took 1.24 seconds to rattle this change. |
 |
|
