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. Effigy is accompanied by special marking consisting of double dates `1952` and `2022,` separated by four pearls symbolizing the four effigies that have graced Canadian coins during the reign of Elizabeth II.
Obverse script
Latin
Obverse lettering
ELIZABETH II 2024 D•G•REGINA
1952 ⁘ 2022
20 DOLLARS
SB (Translation: Elizabeth II, Queen by the Grace of God)
Reverse description
Your coin’s reverse highlights the rich history of Amber Valley, one of the largest all-Black settlements in western Canada in the early 20th century. The design is centred on a family portrait that represents the spiritual heart of the story: the Black homesteaders who founded Amber Valley (formerly Pine Creek) in 1909 and built a thriving community. Enhanced with flourishes inspired by ads promoting western settlement, the map outline of the province of Alberta provides geographical context, while beneath the settlers, the buildings form an artistic representation of Amber Valley. Along the bottom of the coin design is a depiction of a wagon train making its way across the rugged terrain of northern Alberta—a representation of the settlers’ pioneering spirit and resilience, and of their long journey north.