The Canadian 1937 One Dollar coin, known as the Voyageur dollar, was minted during a period of economic recovery following the Great Depression. The coins design, featuring a voyageur and an Indigenous guide paddling a canoe, symbolized Canadas fur trade heritage and national identity. Made of 80% silver, the 1937 One Dollar coin reflected the nations reliance on precious metals for currency. The economic context of the time influenced the coins composition and design, aiming to instill confidence in the Canadian dollar.
The 1937 One Dollar coins reverse design by Emanuel Hahn depicted a voyageur and an Indigenous guide, highlighting the historical significance of the fur trade in Canadas development. This design choice emphasized the nations cultural heritage and economic foundations. The 1937 One Dollar coins silver content (80% silver) connected it to the broader global economy, as silver was a standard in international trade. Thus, the 1937 One Dollar coin embodies both Canadas historical narrative and its economic strategies during the early 20th century.