Real Shape Iconic Canada 100 Grams Fine Silver Bluenose Schooner (Single)
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Product Overview
The design is based on the Bluenose schooner as it appeared on Canada's classic 1929 50-cent postage stamp. The original stamp was designed by the Canadian Bank Note Company, based on a photograph taken by W. R. MacAskill in 1922; just one year after the ship was completed. Rather than adding a different ship in the background, the designers chose to use two images of the Bluenose to provide perspective and a sense of speed.
Bluenose Schooner Design
The Bluenose has earned its place as one of the most iconic images of Canada, and as an enduring symbol of excellence. The story behind the Bluenose can be traced back to 1919, when the hearty fishermen of the Canadian Maritimes scoffed at the America's cup race being cancelled because of "strong winds." While the America's cup was a race of "recreational yachts," the fishermen sought to establish their own contest. In 1920, the International Fishermen's Trophy was established as a prize for "the fastest ship in the North Atlantic fishing fleet," with a requirement that any ship entered had to be a true working fishing vessel.
Canada faced a great challenge with this new race, as the American fishing vessels were usually smaller and faster. In 1920, the inaugural race was won by a ship from Gloucester, Massachusetts, and the Canadians vowed to defeat their rivals the following year. It was this challenge that inspired Halifax businessmen and Captain Angus Walters to commission W. J. Roué to design a sleek new ship that could beat the New England rivals.
The new Bluenose schooner was completed in early 1921, and was designed both as a working fishing vessel and a racing craft. With Captain Walters at the helm, the Bluenose triumphed in its first race, and the ship remained undefeated through an 18-year career. For this work of medallic art in pure silver, the original design has been brought to life with realistic colour by renowned Canadian artist Trevor Tenant.
• Mintage: 1,867
• Diameter: 100 mm
• Weight: 100 g .9999 fine silver
• GST/HST exempt
Includes:
• Iconic Bluenose Schooner Canada Real Shape 100-Gram Fine Silver