1978 Canada Select Gem Uncirculated Proof-Like Set – Red Leather-Like Presentation Case

The 1978 Canada Select Gem Uncirculated Proof-Like (PL) Set is an official collector issue from the Royal Canadian Mint (RCM), featuring six standard Canadian circulation coins struck with a brilliant proof-like finish. These coins display reflective, mirror-like fields with sharply defined devices, offering a level of quality superior to regular business strikes.

This set is especially well known among collectors for its variety potential, most notably the famous differences found on the 50-cent coin and, in some cases, the Voyageur dollar. Because of this, the 1978 PL set is widely regarded as one of the more interesting and educational proof-like issues, appealing to both new and seasoned collectors.

The coins are sealed in their original transparent plastic and presented in a red leather-like presentation case, providing both protection and an elegant display.

Design Highlights

Obverse (Front): Queen Elizabeth II
All six coins feature the right-facing effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, surrounded by the Latin inscription ELIZABETH II · D · G · REGINA. The proof-like striking enhances contrast between the mirrored background and frosted portrait.

Reverse (Back): Classic Canadian Coinage Designs

• 1 Cent: Maple leaf twig

• 5 Cents: Beaver on a log

• 10 Cents: Bluenose schooner

• 25 Cents: Caribou in profile

• 50 Cents: Royal Coat of Arms of Canada

• 1 Dollar: Voyageur canoe scene

These designs represent Canada’s natural heritage, history, and national identity.

Key Features

• Royal Canadian Mint Issue: Official 1978 proof-like collector set

• Select Gem Quality: Coins chosen for superior strike, luster, and eye appeal

• Proof-Like Finish: Brilliant mirrored fields with crisp details

• Complete Circulation Set: All six denominations from 1¢ to $1

• Variety Potential: Known for collectible die varieties, adding long-term interest

• Collector Friendly Issue: Popular entry-level proof-like set with strong demand

Varieties & Collectibility

• 50-Cent “Round Jewels” vs. “Square Jewels”:
  The crown jewels on the Coat of Arms appear in two varieties. The round jewels are more common, while the square jewels variety is scarcer and highly sought after.

• Voyageur Dollar – “No Island” Variety:
  Some sets include the Voyageur dollar without the small island detail, adding further collectible appeal.

(Variety presence cannot be guaranteed unless specifically noted.)

Specifications

• Country: Canada

• Mint: Royal Canadian Mint (RCM)

• Year: 1978

• Denominations: 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, 50¢, $1

• Finish: Proof-Like / Select Gem Uncirculated

• Estimated Mintage: ~250,000 sets

• Certification: Uncertified

Composition

• 1 Cent: Copper

• 5 Cents: Nickel

• 10 Cents: Nickel

• 25 Cents: Nickel

• 50 Cents: Nickel

• $1 Dollar: Nickel

Packaging

• Packaging: Coins sealed in original transparent plastic

• Presentation: Red leather-like presentation case

• Insert: Information card included (as issued)

• Condition: Coins in excellent proof-like condition; light, normal wear to packaging may be present (see photos)

🪙 Why Collect This Set?

The 1978 Canada Proof-Like Set is a standout issue thanks to its notable varieties, strong visual appeal, and affordability. It offers collectors a complete year set of Canadian coinage with added educational and discovery value, making it an excellent addition to proof-like collections or a smart starting point for new collectors.