| The Common Loon
The design originally intended for the one-dollar
coin was the traditional image of the voyageur, which
had been featured on the coin since 1935. However,
when the dies mysteriously disappeared en route to
Winnipeg, the Royal Canadian Mint decided to change
the design for another in its inventory. |
| The one-dollar coin is struck
with the motif of a loon on the water. This bird is
celebrated for its grace, distinctive colouring, and
haunting call, which can be heard throughout the Canadian
wetlands.
The loon design was created by Robert-Ralph Carmichael,
one of Canada’s most well-known wildlife artists.
The one-dollar coin was placed in circulation in 1987
as a cost-saving measure to replace the one-dollar
bank note. Canadians immediately dubbed it the "loonie."
North Americans have long considered loons to be beautiful
and special. The loon has also come to symbolize wilderness
and solitude. |
| In summer, the common loon is
striking, with its black-and-white checkered back,
glossy black head, white belly and wing lining, and
characteristic white necklace circling the throat.
The loon’s habit of swimming low in the water
helps to distinguish it from other waterbirds, such
as ducks and geese. In flight, loons can be recognized
by their humpbacked profile, with head and neck held
low and feet pressed back towards the body and projecting
beyond the tail.
Perhaps one of the most fascinating aspects about
common loons is their haunting and variable call.
Loons are most vocal from mid-May to mid-June. They
have four distinct calls, which they use in varying
combinations to communicate with their families and
with other loons. One of these calls is the tremolo,
which resembles laughter and is used for a variety
of purposes: it can signal greeting or denote alarm,
concern, or annoyance.
For more information about the common loon symbol,
please see the following sources:
Environment Canada: www.cws-scf.ec.gc.ca/hww-fap/loons/loons.php
Royal Canadian Mint: www.mint.ca
Association des Numismates Francophones du Canada:
www.cam.org/~anfc/huard.htm
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