Product Overview
This quarter-ounce $100 pure gold coin marks the 100th anniversary of the launch of the Bluenose schooner, a fishing and racing craft that has become a symbol of Canadian excellence and ingenuity. The schooner is presented through two images that are precisely aligned to create a contrasting effect. In the background, the hull drawing focuses on the streamlined design and clean lines that contributed to the ship's successful racing career. In the foreground, the Bluenose is seen without sails and dressed in an array of signal flags based on a launch day (March 26, 1921) photograph. The use of a forced perspective emphasizes the bow and adds a sense of movement.

The story behind the Bluenose can be traced back to 1919, when the hearty fishermen of the Canadian Maritimes scoffed at the America's Cup race being cancelled because of "strong winds." While the America's cup was a race of "recreational yachts," the fishermen sought to establish their own contest. In 1920, the International Fishermen's Trophy was established as a prize for "the fastest ship in the North Atlantic fishing fleet," with a requirement that any ship entered had to be a true working fishing vessel. 

Canada faced a great challenge with this new race, as American fishing vessels were usually smaller and faster. In 1920, the inaugural race was won by a ship from Gloucester, Massachusetts, and the Canadians vowed to defeat their rivals the following year. It was this challenge that inspired Halifax businessmen and Captain Angus Walters to commission W. J. Roué to design a sleek new ship that could beat the New England rivals.

The new Bluenose schooner was completed in early 1921 and was designed both as a working fishing vessel and a racing craft. With Captain Walters at the helm, the Bluenose triumphed in its first race, and the ship remained undefeated through an 18-year career.

• Mintage: 2,000
• Diameter: 20 mm
• Weight: 7.8 g pure gold
• GST/HST exempt

Includes:
• 2021 $100 Pure Gold 100th Anniversary of Bluenose: The Launch
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