The Canadian 1980 One Dollar coin, designed by artist Robert-Ralph Carmichael, features a voyager rowing a canoe. This design reflected Canada’s national identity and spirit of exploration. Politically, the 1980 coin was released during a time of economic challenges, including high inflation, and a renewed sense of Canadian pride as the country prepared for the upcoming 1982 Constitution Act.
Economically, the 1980 One Dollar coin was made of nickel, a move to reduce costs following the rising price of silver. The coin’s design, focusing on the canoe, symbolized Canada’s rich heritage and unity, marking an important shift in Canadian currency production and symbolism during a period of national transition.