The obverse features a maple leaf pattern and Head of Queen Elizabeth II, as at 77 years of age, bare headed, wearing necklace and earrings, facing right.
Obverse script
Latin
Obverse lettering
ELIZABETH II D·G·REGINA (Translation: Elizabeth II Queen by the grace of God)
Reverse description
The reverse combines Robert-Ralph Carmichael`s $1 circulation coin design with an expanded scene by Canadian artist Claude Thivierge; the solitary loon from the dollar coin watches his family from afar, while the female loon remains at the nest with their chicks.