1987 (1587-) Canadian $1 John Davis Exploration/Davis Strait 400th Anniv Proof Silver Dollar Coin
The 1987 Canadian Silver Dollar honors the 400th anniversary of English explorer John Davis’s 1587 voyage into the Arctic waters that would later bear his name—Davis Strait. This proof issue commemorates the spirit of exploration and the challenging journeys that helped map Canada\'s northern frontiers.

Design and Theme:
This coin highlights Arctic navigation and 16th-century maritime exploration.
Obverse:
Displays the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Arnold Machin, featuring the Queen facing right and wearing a tiara.
Reverse:
Depicts a 16th-century sailing vessel entering the icy waters of Davis Strait, with jagged icebergs flanking the scene and the ship symbolizing the bravery of early explorers.

Specifications:
Year: 1987
Metal: Sterling Silver (.925)
Silver Content: 0.75 troy oz
Weight: 25.175 grams
Diameter: 36.07 mm
Finish: Proof
Face Value: 1 Dollar (CAD)
Mintage: 555,000
Issuing Mint: Royal Canadian Mint
Country of Issue: Canada

Packaging and Presentation:
Each coin is presented in its original black clamshell case with a red outer sleeve and an official bilingual Certificate of Authenticity. The frosted and polished surfaces are preserved in pristine condition by the capsule and box, making it a handsome addition to any collection or display.

What Makes This Coin Unique:

Commemorative significance:
Marks 400 years since John Davis charted Davis Strait, connecting the Atlantic to the Arctic.
Silver content:
Struck in sterling silver with 0.75 troy ounces of pure silver content.
Proof finish:
High-contrast frosted details against a mirror-like field for enhanced visual appeal.
Nautical theme:
Appeals to maritime history collectors and fans of Arctic exploration.
Legal tender status:
Carries a denomination of 1 dollar and full government-backed authenticity.
Collector appeal:
A classic example of Canadian historical commemoratives with strong demand among silver dollar collectors.
This proof silver dollar celebrates bold exploration and continues to hold strong collectible and historical value.