2007 - $8 - Canada Fine Silver Chinese Square Hole Coin - TAX Exempt

$8 Fine Silver Chinese Coin (2007)

A first for the Royal Canadian Mint! This unique coin was inspired by the square-holed coins that came into use inChina after 523 B.C. Many believe its round shape symbolized heaven while the square represented earth.These coins were cast from bronze and the holes enabled them to be strung on a cord— 1,000 coins forming the main purchasing unit in use at the time.

As the Chinese began to immigrate to Canada during the late 1800's, they quickly proved their worth as capable, hardworking labourers who demanded very little oftheir employers. They made a significant contribution to the mining and railway industries and were excellent cooks, gardeners and launderers. However, with a language and culture that differed significantlyfrom the European society that dominated 19th-century Canada, assimilation was difficult.

Ever resourceful, the Chinese created their own communities and overcame their chronic shortage of funds by using the square-holed coins from their homeland as trade tokens.

Special features:
This coin has a square hole in the centre – a Royal Canadian Mint first!

Packaging:
Maroon display case with an insert which houses the encapsulatedcoin. Protected by a black beauty box.

SPECIFICATIONS

Product Number
623417
Mintage
20,000
Composition
99.99 % silver
Weight
25.18 g
Edge
plain
Certificate
serialized
Face Value
8 dollars
Finish
proof
Artist
Harvey Chan