The reverse design by Canadian artist Ellen Cowie features a circular collage of iconic plants and animals from Canada’s coastal waters. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt. Canada is uniquely blessed in liquid assets. In addition to our thousands of lakes and rivers, our coastal regions support some of the world’s most important marine ecosystems. About 20 percent of Canada’s population lives in one of these coastal areas. Canada’s total oceanic coastline, including islands, exceeds 240,000 kilometres. The Great Lakes add nearly 4,000 kilometres to this distance. From each coast, our waters extend 370 kilometres into the Arctic, Pacific, and Atlantic oceans. Each of these regions is distinct, teeming with life and contributing to the nation’s history, culture and economy. This beautiful coin features an original composition by Canadian artist Ellen Cowie which pays tribute to the splendour of Canada’s coastal waters.