1900 Shinplaster Vignette of Britannia - 60 gram 14-kt. Gold Coin 300$ Canada 2006
 
Rediscover Britannia as she appeared on Canada's second "shinplaster"of 1900, the 25-cent fractional note that was originally introduced in 1870 as a temporary issue while the Dominion waited for new silver coins to arrive from the Royal Mint in London.

It wasn't long before people began calling it a "shinplaster" after the notes that American soldiers reputedly used to line their boots during the American Revolution. Fearing this reputation might negatively affect public acceptance, "Will pay on demand" and "Redeemable on presentation at Montreal, Toronto or St. John" were printed on the back - a promise that made the note "as good as gold" and quickly instilled public confidence. In fact, this "temporary" issue was so popular that it remained in circulation for 65 years.

By 1900, the note was due for a new design. And there was no questionthat it would have to maintain an image of Britannia. While the original note of 1870 featured her portrait, the new issue showed Britanniaseated next to a shield with the Union Jack.

Make the patron goddess of early British Celtic tribes a fascinating part of your collection when you order the spectacular 2006 $300 Gold Coin struck in 14-karat gold. Only 1,250 of these spectacular coins will be minted!