ROBERT-RALPH CARMICHAEL (1937-2016)

Robert-Ralph Carmichael didn't just paint a loon – he created one of Canada's most enduring national icons, and in doing so, left a lasting cultural imprint. His depiction of a solitary loon on the reverse side of the Canadian $1 coin is recognized around the world. The image has endured for nearly four decades with only minor refinements, a testament to the strength and timelessness of his design.

"Mr. Carmichael's loonie design has stood the test of time due to its simplicity in depicting an icon of Canadian wildlife," said a statement issued by the Royal Canadian Mint following news of  Carmichael’s death. "The introduction of the $1 coin in 1987 was the most significant change to Canada's coinage system in over 50 years."¹

Figures from the mint show that more than one billion loonies  have been produced since 1987. Carmichael's initials appear near the bird's beak.

Altogether, Carmichael’s work is featured on about 15 different Canadian coins, including a 2004 silver dollar marking the 400th anniversary of the first French settlement in North America; a 2001 $100 coin marking the 100th anniversary of the Library of Parliament; and a 1988 silver dollar marking the 250th anniversary of the Saint-Maurice Ironworks.

The Canadian artist, who graduated from the Ontario College of Art (OCA, now OCAD University) in 1959 with a focus on fine arts, also designed the $1 Loon stamp for Canada Post in 1998, as part of the Wildlife Series.

Learn more about Robert-Ralph Carmichael

¹Robert-Ralph Carmichael, artist behind loonie coin, dies, CBC News, July 18, 2016

Image credit: Mark Blinch, Reuters