2000 Canada: 25 Cents Health - Millennium Series (April)
BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) Quality — Grade: MS-60
Coin Description
This commemorative 25-cent coin was issued in April 2000 by the Royal Canadian Mint as part of the Millennium Series. Following the twelve coins of 1999 that celebrated Canada's past, the twelve coins of 2000 look to the future. The theme of this coin, "Health", symbolizes the hope that our deep commitment to medical research will enable Canadians to enjoy long and healthy lives.
The design is the work of artist Anny Wassef (initials "AW"). It features the Rod of Asclepius (a snake entwined around a staff), an ancient symbol of medicine, intertwined with a red ribbon, a modern symbol of the fight against AIDS. The whole is accompanied by a stylized laurel branch.
With a mintage of 34,663,619 copies, this coin is now sought after by collectors of the Millennium Series. The offered example, graded MS-60, provides a basic state of preservation for an uncirculated coin.
The Obverse (Effigy of Queen Elizabeth II)
The obverse features the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by artist Arnold Machin. This portrait, known as the "young bust," shows the Queen wearing a circular diamond crown adorned with roses, shamrocks, and thistles, symbolizing the nations of the United Kingdom. The legend "ELIZABETH II D • G • REGINA" surrounds the royal bust, with the denomination "25 CENTS" at the bottom.
For an MS-60 grade, the original mint luster is present but may be somewhat dulled, and some contact marks are visible to the naked eye on the high points of the relief.
The Reverse (Health - Rod of Asclepius and Red Ribbon)
The reverse, designed by Anny Wassef, depicts a scene symbolizing healthcare and medical research. It features a stylized Rod of Asclepius, an ancient symbol of medicine, intertwined with a red ribbon, a modern symbol of the fight against AIDS. The bilingual inscriptions "HEALTH 2000 SANTÉ" surround the design, with "CANADA" at the bottom.
This design celebrates health and the hope for a long life, symbolizing Canada's commitment to medical research and development. In MS-60, the design details are clear despite the presence of some light handling marks.
Technical Specifications
Condition: MS-60
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Luster: Original mint luster is present but may be slightly dulled or show handling marks.
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Surface: Some contact marks (nicks, fine scratches) visible to the naked eye, mainly on the high points of the relief. The coin has not been circulated.
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Strike: The strike is complete, and all design details (Rod of Asclepius, ribbon, inscriptions) are clearly visible.
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Visual Appeal: An MS-60 grade coin represents the entry level for uncirculated coins, offering excellent value for collectors who wish to acquire this historic piece without the premium of higher grades.
