Battle of Vimy Ridge – 2017 $20 First World War Pure Silver Coin

Description

The Battle of Vimy Ridge stands as one of the most defining moments in Canadian history. Fought from April 9–12, 1917, it marked the first time all four divisions of the Canadian Corps fought together, emerging as a unified and formidable force on the world stage. This 2017 $20 fine silver coin, issued by the Royal Canadian Mint, honours the courage, sacrifice, and legacy of the Canadians who fought at Vimy Ridge—an event often described as the birth of a nation.

Struck in 1 oz of 99.99% pure silver, this powerful tribute combines historical accuracy with symbolic artistry. Selective gold plating is used to emphasize key elements of the design, reinforcing the enduring significance of this pivotal battle. With a limited mintage of 10,000 coins worldwide, this issue is both a meaningful remembrance and a highly collectible piece of Canadian military history. As a pure silver coin, it is GST/HST exempt.

Special Features

• Commemorates the Battle of Vimy Ridge (April 9–12, 1917)

• Part of the First World War: Battlefront Series

• Struck in 1 oz of 99.99% pure silver

• Selective gold plating highlights historical details

• Limited mintage of 10,000 coins worldwide

• Includes serialized certificate of authenticity

• GST/HST exempt

Design

The reverse design by Canadian artist Pandora Young transports the viewer to the battlefields of northern France. At the center stands a faceless Canadian soldier, deliberately rendered as an “Unknown Soldier” to represent all who fought at Vimy Ridge. Selective gold plating accentuates the belted khaki uniform and maple leaf insignia of the Canadian Expeditionary Forces.

The soldier holds a steel trench helmet, while an 18-pound artillery gun appears behind him—symbolizing the creeping barrage that proved crucial to the Canadian victory. Below, the winged figure of Victory is rendered with selective gold plating, echoing the bronze-hued Victory Medal awarded to Allied soldiers after the war.

The obverse features the effigy of King George V, designed by T. H. Paget, reinforcing the historical authenticity of the period.

Packaging

The coin is encapsulated and presented in a Royal Canadian Mint maroon clamshell, housed within a graphic beauty box. A serialized certificate of authenticity accompanies the coin.

Specifications

• Year: 2017

• Face Value: $20

• Composition: 99.99% pure silver

• Weight: 31.39 g (1 oz)

• Diameter: 38 mm

• Finish: Proof with selective gold plating

• Edge: Serrated

• Mintage: 10,000

• Series: First World War: Battlefront

• Artist: Pandora Young (reverse), T. H. Paget (obverse)

• Monarch: King George V

Why Collect It?

This coin captures one of the most powerful chapters in Canada’s military story, combining solemn remembrance with masterful engraving and selective gold plating. Its low mintage, historical depth, and symbolic design make it an essential addition for collectors of Canadian history, military commemoratives, and premium silver issues.