CENTENNIAL OF THE PARLIAMENT BUILDINGS FIRE AND THE PRESERVATION OF THE LIBRARY OF PARLIAMENT – 2016 $100 14K Gold Coin – Royal Canadian Mint
USD 438.51
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USD 438.51
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On the night of February 3, 1916, tragedy struck at the heart of a young nation when the Centre Block of Canada’s stately Parliament Buildings was suddenly engulfed in flames. By morning, the still-smouldering outer walls were all that remained of the original landmark—save for the magnificent Library of Parliament, whose unlikely preservation became an inspiring national symbol of resilience in the face of adversity.
SPECIAL FEATURES
The Royal Canadian Mint’s annual $100 gold coin celebrates the centennial anniversary of the preservation of the Library of Parliament, which survived the tragic fire that devastated the original Centre Block of Parliament in 1916.
Powerful snapshot of a national tragedy: Captures some of the heroic efforts to combat the raging, fast-moving blaze and prevent it from spreading to the Library on that fateful winter night.
Engraved with a meticulous attention to detail: The Library’s ornate architecture is masterfully captured in this portrait of a proud national landmark that endures as a link to Canada’s past.
Striking proof finish: The contrast created by the frosted raised elements against the mirror background brings an added sense of dimension to the design, which exemplifies the artistry and unparalleled craftsmanship that is associated with the Royal Canadian Mint.
DESIGN
The reverse design by Canadian artist Tony Bianco transports the viewer to the fateful night of February 3, 1916 as we bear witness to the tragic fire that has engulfed the Centre Block of Parliament in Ottawa, Ontario. As flames and smoke suddenly billow into the night sky, firefighters quickly rush onto the scene; near the western rear of the Centre Block, one firefighter stands ahead of a steamer as he douses the flames with water, while two more rush across the snow-covered landscape to join the fray. In the midst of all the chaos and tragedy, the towering spire of the Library of Parliament remains an inspiring sight as it seems to remain untouched by the blaze, thanks in part to the fireproof doors that helped protect this architectural jewel and its irreplaceable collection.
SPECIFICATIONS
No: 149317
Mintage: 1,500
Material: 14K Gold
Finish: Proof
Weight: 12g
Diameter: 27mm
Edge: Serrated
Certificate: Serialiazed