1989 Canadian $1 Mackenzie River Exploration 200th Anniv Proof Silver Dollar Coin
The 1989 Canadian Silver Dollar honors the 200th anniversary of Alexander Mackenzie’s historic exploration of the Mackenzie River in 1789. This proof coin celebrates Canada’s early exploration history and the vast landscapes of its northern territories.

Design and Theme:
This coin’s imagery commemorates a key moment in Canadian exploration.
Obverse:
Features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Arnold Machin, with the Queen facing right and wearing a tiara.
Reverse:
Depicts Alexander Mackenzie and his Indigenous guide in a canoe navigating the Mackenzie River, with forested banks and distant mountains evoking the remote northern frontier.

Specifications:
Year: 1989
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: 253,931
Issuing Mint: Royal Canadian Mint
Country of Issue: Canada

Packaging and Presentation:
Each coin comes in its original black clamshell presentation case with an outer sleeve. A bilingual Certificate of Authenticity from the Royal Canadian Mint is included. The polished proof finish enhances the detail of the engraved scene, making this a collector-grade item.

What Makes This Coin Unique:

Commemorative significance:
Marks the 200th anniversary of Alexander Mackenzie’s 1789 exploration of the Mackenzie River.
Silver content:
Contains 0.75 troy ounces of sterling silver (.925 purity), offering collectible and bullion value.
Proof finish:
High-quality frosted design elements contrast with the mirror-like background.
Historical subject:
Celebrates Canada’s early European-led expeditions and Indigenous contributions to exploration.
Legal tender status:
Has a face value of 1 dollar and is issued by the Royal Canadian Mint.
Collector appeal:
A favorite among Canadian history buffs and collectors of exploration-themed coins.
This coin captures a defining chapter in Canada’s exploration era and remains a prized addition to silver dollar collections.