Description

From the tragedies of the First World War came a timeless poem: 2015 marks the 100th anniversary of the poem In Flanders Fields, which was written by Canadian physician Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae amid the horrors of the Second Battle of Ypres in 1915. Through his hauntingly poignant poem, McCrae succeeded in giving a voice to the 60,000 Canadians who ultimately lost their lives in the First World War, and ignited an international effort to keep their legacy alive. To mark this anniversary, this striking coin is a solemn remembrance of the 600,000 Canadians who served their country from 1914 to 1918, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice ? lest we forget.

SPECIAL FEATURES

• A moving commemoration of the 100th anniversary of Canadian John McCrae?s famous poem, which helped transform the poppy into a world-renowned memorial symbol.
• The poem inspired the adoption of the poppy as an internationally recognised memorial symbol, making this coin a fitting tribute to the more than 600,000 Canadians who served abroad during the First World War, and the 60,000 who perished.
• Stunning use of finishes and masterful engraving showcase the intricacies of the design.
• Crafted from 99.99% pure silver, with a limited mintage of just 500 coins worldwide.
• A striking collectible for commemorators, and a prestigious addition to any Canadian military- or history-themed collection.
• A symbolic gift for those in the military, or as a tribute to loved ones who were lost at war.

DESIGN

The reverse design by Canadian artist Tony Bianco features beautifully detailed engraving that transports the viewer back to May 1915, back to the fields near Ypres. The author of the poem, Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, occupies the centre of the reverse?s image field; identified as medical personnel by the cross shoulder patch on his uniform, McCrae is seated on a pile of rubble with pen and paper in hand. Surrounded by a sea of poppies blooming between the makeshift graves of fallen soldiers, McCrae begins to write In Flanders Field. The first paragraph of the poem in both English and French inscribed behind him.