First World War: Battlefront Series – The Battle of Neuve-Chapelle

Description

The 2015 $20 Battle of Neuve-Chapelle coin is the inaugural release in the Royal Canadian Mint’s First World War: Battlefront Series, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the first battle involving Canadian forces during WWI. Struck in 31.39 g (1.009 troy oz) of 99.99% pure silver with a proof finish, this powerful commemorative combines historical storytelling with detailed engraving and selective gold plating. With a limited mintage of 10,000 coins worldwide, it stands as a meaningful tribute to Canada’s earliest wartime contributions. GST/HST exempt.

Special Features

• First coin in the First World War: Battlefront Series

• Commemorates the centennial of the Battle of Neuve-Chapelle (1915)

• Selective gold plating highlights the winged figure of Victory

• Obverse features a selective gold-plated effigy of King George V

• Intricate battlefield scene depicting Canadian artillery in action

• Struck in 99.99% pure silver with proof finish

• Limited mintage of 10,000 coins worldwide

• Encapsulated with Royal Canadian Mint presentation packaging

• GST/HST exempt

Design

The reverse design by Canadian artist Joel Kimmel portrays a dramatic wartime moment: an 18-pounder field gun operated by three Canadian gunners while a sergeant observes through binoculars. Smoke clouds from bombardment fill the sky, and ammunition lies ready nearby, reinforcing the intensity of artillery warfare.

At the bottom, a banner frames a selective gold-plated winged figure of Victory, inspired by the historic Victory Medal awarded to Allied soldiers after WWI.

The obverse features the effigy of King George V by Sir E. B. MacKennal, also enhanced with selective gold plating to honor the reigning monarch during the conflict.

Historical Background – The Battle of Neuve-Chapelle

On March 10, 1915, Canadian artillery units supported a British offensive near Neuve-Chapelle, France. Their role was to prevent German reinforcements from reaching the front line. Though the Allies advanced about 2 kilometres, communication breakdowns, ammunition shortages, and logistical challenges halted further progress.

Despite being a supporting action, the battle provided crucial lessons for the Canadian Expeditionary Force about artillery coordination, communications, and trench warfare—experience that would contribute to later successes, including their renowned performance at Ypres.

Packaging

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

Specifications

Year: 2015
Face Value: $20
Composition: 99.99% pure silver
Weight: 31.39 g
Bullion Weight: 1.009 troy oz
Diameter: 38 mm
Finish: Proof with selective gold plating
Mintage: 10,000
Series: First World War: Battlefront Series
Artist (Reverse): Joel Kimmel
Obverse: King George V effigy by E. B. MacKennal
Theme: Canada’s Military

Why Collect This Coin?

The Battle of Neuve-Chapelle coin captures a defining moment in Canada’s military history, honoring the courage and determination of early Canadian soldiers in WWI. Its detailed battlefield engraving, dual gold-plated elements, historical significance, and limited mintage make it an exceptional collectible for military historians, numismatists, and collectors of commemorative silver issues.