1997 – 50 Cents Half Dollar Canada

The 1997 Canadian 50 cents coin features the stylized Canadian Coat of Arms on its reverse, designed by Cathy Bursey-Sabourin, with the obverse displaying the bust of Queen Elizabeth II wearing a circular diamond crown decorated with roses, shamrocks, and thistles, designed by Dora de Pédery-Hunt. Made of nickel, this coin has a diameter of 27.13 mm, a weight of 8.1 g, a thickness of 1.9 mm, and a reeded edge with medal alignment. In 1997, about 387,000 coins were minted for circulation. The coat of arms on the coin symbolizes Canada’s political roots and heritage, featuring emblems from England, France, Scotland, and Ireland, with the motto of the Order of Canada added in the 1990s, highlighting a rich national symbolism. Though minted for circulation, these coins often have higher values in mint state conditions for collectors.