20 Dollars - Elizabeth II Borealia, Canada

Building on the classic concept of a female national personification, artist Rebecca Yanovskaya offers a modern allegory for a modern Canada. Framed by waves and maple leaves that unite land and sea, Borealia is the image of strength and confidence as she stands against the majestic backdrop of Canadas tallest peak, Mount Logan, which represents our soaring spirit of innovation. Like the British figurehead Britannia, Borealia is clad in traditional robes, but with unique armour that hints at Canadas journey since the colonial era. Every engraved element in this intricate design carries deeper symbolic meaning, including those that allude to the weight of history: the fur cape that represents Canadas pre-Confederation past; the feather that pays tribute to Indigenous Peoples; and the poppies of remembrance woven into her hair. In one hand, Borealia holds the shield of the Arms of Canada; in the other, a dove of peacea nod to Canadas historic role as peacekeepers, but also to Canadians desire for peace. Facing forward towards the future, Borealia is strong, optimistic and steadfast, like the people she represents, whose ideals and spirit continue to shape and re-define the nations global future. With one foot reverentially set in the past, her name is an ode to one of the proposed names of our country leading up to Confederation: Borealia.

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Rebecca Yanovskaya

Head of Queen Elizabeth II, as at 77 years of age, bare headed, wearing necklace and earrings, facing right.

Susan Taylor

Susanna Blunt

Serrated