Discover the Rare Wheat 5-Cent Coin: A Lost Canadian Treasure Revived

Canada has recently honored one of its “lost designs” with a brand-new coin release. The Royal Canadian Mint (RCM) unveiled a special Wheat 5-cent coin as part of its Lost Designs from the Archives series. This series brings back unused coin designs from history, showcasing their beauty and significance. The Wheat 5-cent coin, designed by Emanuel Hahn in 1936, never made it into circulation back then, but now it has finally come to life in 2024. This release is the second in the series and offers a rare glimpse into what could have been if this design had been chosen for Canadian currency.

FeatureDetails
Coin NameWheat 5-Cent Coin
Release DateOctober 1, 2024
MintRoyal Canadian Mint
Design OriginClassic design by Emanuel Hahn
SeriesLost Designs from the Archives
Material2-ounce, .9999 fine silver
Weight62.69 grams
Diameter50 millimeters
Mintage Limit2,500 pieces
PackagingRed lacquered wooden case with black beauty box and certificate
Retail Price$229.95 Canadian
AvailabilityExclusively for Masters Club members

RCM’s Lost Designs Series

What is the Lost Designs from the Archives Series?

The Lost Designs from the Archives series by the Royal Canadian Mint is an exciting initiative that revives historic designs that were proposed but never used. The first coin in this series featured a design of a trillium flower, and now the second release showcases a wheat-themed 5-cent coin by Emanuel Hahn. The series celebrates these forgotten designs and offers collectors a chance to appreciate the artistry that was once set aside.

The Wheat 5-cent Coin: A Historic Design

The Wheat 5-cent coin is special because it comes from Emanuel Hahn’s original design, which was submitted during a 1936 competition for Canadian coins. Hahn, who was a prominent coin designer in Canada, created designs for several iconic Canadian coins, including the Voyageur dollar, the caribou 25-cent piece, and the Bluenose 10-cent coin. Although his wheat design wasn’t selected for the 1937 series, it has been brought to life today as a stunning 2-ounce silver coin.

Coin Design Details

Emanuel Hahn’s Original Concept

The wheat design on the 5-cent coin is a testament to Emanuel Hahn’s artistic skill and his eye for balance and harmony. The sketch emphasizes symmetry, with wheat stalks that evoke a sense of growth, prosperity, and abundance. The detailed design now appears on a Proof, 2-ounce silver coin that collectors can admire.

Coin Specifications

The Wheat 5-cent coin is made of .9999 fine silver and weighs 62.69 grams. It measures 50 millimeters in diameter, giving it a substantial feel in hand. The coin also features the effigy of King George V, designed by Sir E.B. Mackennal, on its obverse. The mintage is limited to just 2,500 pieces, making this coin highly collectible.

Packaging and Presentation

The coin comes in a sleek red lacquered wooden case, accompanied by a black beauty box. It also includes a custom serialized certificate, ensuring its authenticity. Collectors can purchase the coin for $229.95 CAD, but it’s available exclusively to members of the RCM’s Masters Club.

Emanuel Hahn’s Influence on Canadian Coins

Who Was Emanuel Hahn?

Emanuel Hahn (1881-1957) was a renowned Canadian sculptor and coin designer. He is best known for designing some of Canada’s most beloved coins, such as the 1939 Royal Visit dollar and the caribou 25-cent piece. His designs have had a lasting impact on Canadian numismatics, with the Wheat 5-cent coin being another example of his timeless artistry.

Why Was the Wheat Design Rejected?

Back in 1936, Canada held a competition to select designs for its new coin series. While Hahn’s wheat design was praised for its beauty, it wasn’t selected for the 5-cent coin. Instead, other designs were chosen, but now, nearly a century later, the wheat design is finally getting the recognition it deserves.

Collecting the Wheat 5-cent Coin

Availability and Pricing

The Wheat 5-cent coin is available for purchase through the Royal Canadian Mint’s Masters Club, an exclusive loyalty program for collectors. With a mintage of only 2,500 pieces, the coin is highly sought after and retails for $229.95 CAD. Each purchase includes up to three coins, making it a great option for those who want to collect multiple pieces or share them with fellow coin enthusiasts.

How to Join the Masters Club

To buy the Wheat 5-cent coin, collectors must first join the Masters Club. Membership is free and offers several benefits, including early access to new coin releases, exclusive discounts, and invitations to special events. Members can order the coin through the RCM’s website

Conclusion

The Royal Canadian Mint’s Wheat 5-cent coin is more than just a piece of silver—it’s a part of Canada’s rich history, brought back to life for collectors to enjoy. Emanuel Hahn’s unused design from 1936 has finally been given the spotlight it deserves, allowing us to appreciate his artistic vision. With its intricate details, limited mintage, and connection to a fascinating part of Canadian coin history, this coin is a must-have for any serious collector.

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FAQs

1. What is the Wheat 5-Cent Coin?

The Wheat 5-Cent Coin is a limited edition coin from Canada, featuring a classic design by Emanuel Hahn. It is part of the “Lost Designs from the Archives” series, which revives unused coin concepts from a 1936 design competition.

2. When was the Wheat 5-Cent Coin released?

The coin was released on October 1, 2024.

3. Who designed the Wheat 5-Cent Coin?

The coin was designed by Emanuel Hahn, a notable Canadian artist known for his previous coin designs, including the Voyageur dollar and the “caribou” 25-cent piece.

4. How much does the Wheat 5-Cent Coin cost?

The retail price of the Wheat 5-Cent Coin is $229.95 Canadian.

5. How many Wheat 5-Cent Coins were made?

There is a limited mintage of only 2,500 pieces.

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