The "May" quarter is one of twelve monthly-themed pieces issued by the Royal Canadian Mint throughout 1999 as part of the Millennium series — a program conceived to mark the approaching centennial year with a coin for every month rather than a single commemorative. The .925 silver variant was produced alongside a standard nickel circulation issue, aimed squarely at the collector market.
May's design was selected through a national public competition, drawing submissions from ordinary Canadians rather than staff engravers — an unusual departure for the Mint at the time.
The "May" quarter is one of twelve monthly-themed pieces issued by the Royal Canadian Mint throughout 1999 as part of the Millennium series — a program conceived to mark the approaching centennial year with a coin for every month rather than a single commemorative. The .925 silver variant was produced alongside a standard nickel circulation issue, aimed squarely at the collector market.
May's design was selected through a national public competition, drawing submissions from ordinary Canadians rather than staff engravers — an unusual departure for the Mint at the time.