Introduction: In 1982, Canada witnessed a historic moment as its Constitution returned home from Great Britain, marking a pivotal step towards full sovereignty. This monumental event not only reshaped the legal landscape of the country but also left its mark on Canadian coinage, particularly the iconic Voyageur nickel dollar.
The Patriation of Canada's Constitution: After years of negotiation, Canada and Great Britain reached an agreement for the repatriation of Canada's Constitution in 1982. Queen Elizabeth II formally presented the Constitution to the Canadian government in Ottawa on April 17, 1982. Signed by the Queen, Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, Minister of Justice Jean Chrétien, and Registrar General André Ouellet, this event marked a defining moment in Canadian history.
Constitution Act of 1982 and the Voyageur Nickel Dollar: The Constitution Act of 1982 introduced significant amendments to the British North America Act, 1867, renaming it the Constitution Act. To commemorate this historic occasion, the production of the Voyageur nickel dollar in 1982 saw a reduction in quantity, with dies of a new design featuring a representation of Robert Harris' renowned painting of the Fathers of Confederation gathered at the Quebec City conference table in 1864.
Varieties and Errors: Despite the coin's widespread production, several varieties and errors emerged due to improper specifications. Four main varieties exist, including thick and thin planchets with both medal and coinage alignments. Thin planchet strikes were often weak, while major errors were also discovered, adding intrigue to the coin's collectability.
Impact and Legacy: The patriation of Canada's Constitution set a precedent for similar actions by other Commonwealth nations. Australia and New Zealand followed suit, with the Australian Parliament passing the Australia Act in 1986 and the New Zealand Parliament patriating its own constitution in the Constitution Act 1986. These events underscored the growing independence of these nations from British legislative oversight.
Commemorative Gold Coins: In addition to the nickel dollar, commemorative gold coins were minted in 1982 to honor the Constitution. These $100 coins, made of 91.67% gold and 8.33% silver, featured specifications and designs that celebrated this historic milestone in Canadian history.
Specifications of the Voyageur Nickel Dollar (1982):
- Alloy: 100% nickel
- Weight: 15.62 g (thin planchet ~5 g)
- Diameter: 32.13 mm
- Thickness: 2.62 mm
- Engraver: Obverse: Arnold Machin, Reverse: Emanuel Hahn
- Designer: Obverse: Arnold Machin, Reverse: Emanuel Hahn
- Edge: Reeded
- Die axis: ↑↑, ↑↓
Conclusion: The Voyageur nickel dollar of 1982 stands as a tangible reminder of Canada's journey towards constitutional independence. Its design pays homage to the nation's founders, while its production coincided with a pivotal moment in Canadian legal history. As collectors admire this coin, they not only celebrate its numismatic beauty but also honor the enduring spirit of Canadian sovereignty.