Canadian 50-Cent Golden Jubilee Sterling Silver Coin (1952-2002)
Coin/Bullion · Royal Canadian Mint (RCM). Founded in 1908, the RCM is renowned for its high-purity precious metal products and advanced numismatist technology.
Pattern: Golden Jubilee Commemorative / Elizabeth II Accession Anniversary
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Royal Canadian Mint (RCM). Founded in 1908, the RCM is renowned for its high-purity precious metal products and advanced numismatist technology.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) with selective gold plating (Vermeil) on specific versions, though this appears to be the standard silver proof. Weight is approx 9.30 grams.
Dimensions
Diameter: 27.13 mm; Weight: 9.30 grams (0.299 troy oz).
Description
A lustrous commemorative sterling silver fifty-cent piece featuring the dual dates 1952-2002 to honor the Golden Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. The reverse displays a highly detailed rendition of the Canadian coat of arms, symbolizing the sovereign’s authority within the Commonwealth nation.
Key Features
Dual-dated (1952-2002), Sterling Silver composition (unusual for modern circulating Canadian coinage which is nickel-plated steel), and high-relief frosting.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) with selective gold plating (Vermeil) on specific versions, though this appears to be the standard silver proof. Weight is approx 9.30 grams.
Finish & Decoration
Proof finish with frosted relief and mirror-like fields. Features the Canadian Royal Coat of Arms on the reverse and the Queen's effigy on the obverse.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '50 CENTS' and '1952 - 2002'. While coins do not have traditional silversmith hallmarks, the '925' purity is implicit in the RCM's mint specifications for this proof series.
Construction Details
Machine-struck/Die-struck at the Royal Canadian Mint using specially polished dies to achieve the 'Proof' contrast.
Functional Features
Legal tender in Canada, though primarily intended as a collector's numismatic item; features a reeded edge.
Handle & Grip Details
None (Circular coin form).
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial high-precision minting; the frosting is achieved via laser-etching or sandblasting the dies to create the matte effect on the raised surfaces.
Authentication Indicators
Die-struck precision of the coat of arms, correct diameter of 27.13mm, and distinctive RCM frosted-on-mirror finish typical of 2002 proof sets.
Origin & Manufacturing
Ottawa or Winnipeg, Canada; Royal Canadian Mint.
Era & Period
Modern Era / Elizabeth II Reign; specifically celebrating the 50th year of her accession.
Age Estimate
Issued in 2002.
Cultural Significance
Represents Canada's historical constitutional link to the British Monarchy and marks a significant milestone in the longest-reigning monarch's career.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Visible surface contact marks and light fingerprints suggest it has been handled outside of its original protective capsule or mint-issued case.
Value Estimate
$15.00 - $30.00 USD, largely dependent on current silver spot prices and original mint packaging availability.
Care & Maintenance
Should be stored in an airtight acrylic capsule. Avoid cleaning or polishing as this creates 'hairline' scratches that permanently reduce numismatic value.
Similar Pieces
Standard 2002 Nickel 50-cent piece (no silver value), and the 'Double Date' Gold Proof version.
Interesting Facts
While 50-cent pieces are rarely seen in daily Canadian circulation, the Mint continues to produce them in precious metals for collectors due to the historical popularity of the denomination.