DOLLAR
CultureCanadian
Date2024
Dimensions2.6 cm
Object numberHF.2024.22.1
DescriptionCanadian one-dollar circulating coin, nicknamed the "loonie". Eleven-sided gold-coloured coin. Obverse side of coin has with the profile image of King Charles III, inside a border of dots. "CHARLES III D G REX 2024" surrounds the King on three sides. Reverse side has a coloured central section featuring PEI's farming landscape topped by blue sky and a two maple leaves inside a circle. Two figures flank the coloured centre - one is Lucy Maud Montgomery holding a quill looking down towards an open book and inkwell. Her signature and a cat drawing run along the bottom right side of the coin. The other figure is Montgomery's fictional character, Anne Shirley. The girl with her hair in braids faces toward the farmland. "CANADA DOLLAR" runs along to top left edge. Narrative
This loonie embodies many firsts - it was the first commemorative coin of 2024, the first circulating coin to commemorate an author, and the first coin to include the new effigy of King Charles III. Issued to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Canadian literary icon, Lucy Maud Montgomery's birthday. Montgomery shares the coin with her creation, Anne Shirley or Anne of Green Gables, one of the world's most enduring characters. First published in 1908, this story has sold 50 million copies and been shared in more than 30 languages.
The coin was designed by Canadian artist, Brenda Jones, who has a special connection to this story. Her grandparents owned the Green Gables house which is now part of Green Gables Heritage Place in Cavendish, PEI. Included on the coin is a small cat which Montgomery often included in inscriptions. The effigy of King Charles is by Canadian artist, Steven Rosati.
