During the First World War, the final view that tens of thousands of soldiers had after leaving port in the city of Québec was the soaring cliffs of the Gaspe Peninsula. A similar sight awaited those who departed from Halifax (Nova Scotia); they too would watch Canada’s rugged coastline disappear behind the horizon.

Britain had declared war on Germany on August 4, 1914, and by October, the largest convoy Canada had ever seen was on its way. This coin captures the scene that played out on countless ships as they headed to sea. Its design lures the viewer in to experience firsthand a scene that touches the heart as much today as it did 100 years ago.

A commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the declaration of the First World War – an international conflict which would set the scene for countless stories of tragedy, courage and triumph. These helped shape Canada’s international reputation, and would ultimately result in its coming of age as a nation.

The design commemorates the 100th anniversary of the declaration of the First World War. The reverse image is an emotional tribute to those who left their homeland–and their loved ones–to serve as part of the First Contingent of the Canadian Expeditionary Force.

This coin captures a poignant moment as a departing soldier takes one last look at the Canadian coastline. It is October 1914 and the SS Megantic is among the ships transporting the first Canadian troops to British soil in the early days of the First World War. One soldier is leaning against the stern’s guard rail, his back momentarily turned on his shipmates who have gathered on the deck. With the Canadian Red Ensign softly flapping in the breeze overhead, the soldier takes a long look at the soaring cliffs of the Gaspe Peninsula as the ship brings him closer to the battles that surely lie ahead.

Sadly, this sight would prove to be the last glimpse of Canada for many of its brave soldiers, whose personal sacrifices during the war would do much to shape the nation.