Commems Collection Friday Philately: #02 - Canadian Mint Centennial

Time for another journey into the intersection of numismatics and philately.

This time out, a look at Canada's 2008 stamp that commemorated the centennial of the Royal Canadian Mint RCM). The 52-cent (CAD) Canada Post stamp features an image of the reverse of a 1908-dated 50-cent coin. The 50-cent piece was the first coin struck at the Mint; it occurred on January 2, 1908 during the Mint's Opening Ceremonies. (Note: The coin's obverse presents a right-facing portrait of King Edward VI; not shown on stamp.)

The stamp was designed by Stéphane Huot, and is shown postmarked with a commemorative cancellation on the official First Day Cover (FDC) issued by Canada Post. The stamp was issued on June 4, 2008.

The Royal Canadian Mint commemorated its Centennial with multiple coins and medals, including a Proof-only 50-cent piece that is a dual-dated replica of the first-year coin. I got mine via a coin and stamp set that features the 2008 Silver Half Dollar and a mint example stamp (a portion of the stamp's souvenir sheet selvage showing the coin's obverse is also included).


2008 RCM Centennial FDC - Front


2008 RCM Centennial FDC - Back


2008 RCM Centennial 50-Cent Coin