Canada has a new coin inspired by a royal ruby necklace with the price tag to match
Canadians who want a piece of the Crown Jewels in their coin collection can add it for a royal price.
The Royal Canadian Mint recently released a 1-ounce fine silver coin inspired by Queen Elizabeth II’s Baring Ruby Necklace in honour of the late monarch’s 100th birthday.
Acquired by the Queen in 1964, the Baring Ruby Necklace features clusters of dazzling rubies and diamonds, culminating in an extravagant three-pendant centrepiece. The monarch wore it to many banquets and formal occasions, including when she opened Canada’s Parliament in Ottawa in 1977.
“Flashes of ruby mirrored the nation’s red in a historic moment of elegance,” described the Mint. “It is a captivating tribute to a monarch whose grace, loyalty, and affection for Canada shone throughout her reign, and whose timeless style defined an era.”
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The design
According to the Mint, the 99.99 per cent pure silver coin is an artistic interpretation of the Baring Ruby Necklace by Anna Bucciarelli. It’s adorned with clusters of 20 ruby-toned and 27 white crystals.
“I organized the design in concentric circles that radiate outward from a central element set with three large stones,” she told the Mint. “This creates a lace-like transition from the necklace-inspired elements toward the pendant, allowing the design to breathe while still feeling rich and ornate. Within each link of this filigree, I wove maple leaves and Tudor roses, subtle emblems of both Canada and England.”
The Royal Canadian Mint
Looking closer at the coin, you’ll see ornate scrollwork that incorporates Canada’s maple leaf and Tudor rose.
“The jewellery enhancements resembling both the necklace’s neckline and centrepiece are cast in .925 sterling silver and plated with rhodium,” reads the coin’s description.
In honour of the late Queen’s 100th birthday, the coin’s obverse marks the return of the fourth effigy of Queen Elizabeth II. King Charles’ effigy officially replaced the Queen’s on Canadian coins in late 2023.
The Royal Canadian Mint
This is the third coin in the Mint’s Crown Jewels series.
How to collect this coin
The Royal Canadian Mint
It has a limited mintage of 6,000 and costs a pretty penny at $369.95. If you can afford it, you can order it on the Mint’s site.
Collectors will receive it packaged in a black Royal Canadian Mint-branded clamshell with a black beauty box.