First World War Battlefront Series: Battle of Passchendaele

Description

The 2017 $20 Battle of Passchendaele coin from the Royal Canadian Mint pays tribute to the Canadians who fought in one of the most harrowing battles of the First World War. Struck in 31.39 g (1.009 troy oz) of 99.99% pure silver with a proof finish, this commemorative release captures the emotional weight of the conflict through a dramatic engraved design. With a limited mintage of 10,000 coins worldwide, it is a powerful historical collectible. GST/HST exempt.

Special Features

• Honors Canadian soldiers who fought at the Battle of Passchendaele (1917)

• Sixth issue in the First World War Battlefront Series

• Struck in 99.99% pure silver with proof finish

• Highly detailed engraving recreates a devastated battlefield landscape

• Limited mintage of 10,000 coins worldwide

• Designed by Canadian artist Pandora Young

• Official Royal Canadian Mint collectible with display packaging

• GST/HST exempt

Design

The reverse design by Pandora Young presents a powerful first-person perspective of four Canadian soldiers advancing across a rain-soaked battlefield. Months of artillery bombardment and relentless rain have transformed the land into a muddy wasteland, intricately engraved in fine detail. Reflections in the water beneath the soldiers subtly reveal additional silhouettes symbolizing fallen comrades—an artistic tribute to those whose memory endures through their fellow soldiers and the nation they served.

The obverse features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, affirming the coin’s status as Canadian legal tender.

Historical Background – The Battle of Passchendaele

In the summer of 1917, Allied forces attempted to seize German positions near Ypres, Belgium. The battlefield soon became a deadly quagmire due to constant shellfire and heavy rains. Canadian Corps commander Sir Arthur Currie warned that victory would come at terrible cost, yet the attack proceeded after insistence from British leadership.

Careful preparation allowed Canadian troops to advance in phases beginning October 26, 1917. By mid-November, they captured the ridge, but at a devastating price—15,654 Canadians killed or wounded. Overall casualties for Allied forces reached about 275,000, with German losses around 220,000. Although the ground gained was later abandoned, Passchendaele remains a lasting symbol of both sacrifice and determination.

Packaging

The coin is encapsulated and presented in an official Royal Canadian Mint clamshell case with a custom beauty box, ideal for collectors or display.

Specifications

Year: 2017
Face Value: $20
Composition: 99.99% pure silver
Weight: 31.39 g
Bullion Weight: 1.009 troy oz
Diameter: 38 mm
Finish: Proof
Mintage: 10,000
Series: First World War Battlefront Series (No. 6)
Artist: Pandora Young
Obverse: Queen Elizabeth II
Theme: Canada’s Military / Canadian History

Why Collect This Coin?

The Battle of Passchendaele coin stands as a solemn reminder of one of Canada’s most costly and courageous military engagements. Its emotional design, limited mintage, and historical importance make it an exceptional addition for collectors of military memorabilia, Canadian history themes, or fine silver commemoratives.