1969 – 50 Cents Half Dollar Canada

The 1969 Canadian 50 cent coin is composed of 100% nickel, weighs 8.1 grams, and has a diameter of 27.13 mm with a reeded edge and magnetic properties. The obverse features a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II wearing a tiara, designed by Arnold Machin, with the Latin inscription “ELIZABETH II D – G – REGINA,” meaning “Elizabeth II, by the grace of God, the Queen”. The reverse, created by Thomas Shingles, displays the Canadian Coat of Arms, honoring England, Scotland, Ireland, and France, and is inscribed with “A Mari usque ad Mare” (“from sea to sea”) and “Desiderantes meliorem patriam” (“they desire a better country”). The coin was minted by the Royal Canadian Mint for circulation (over 7.1 million produced) and is popular among collectors, though it is rarely seen in daily transactions.