2026 RCM 1 oz Ag History of Canadian Currencies: Spanish Dollar

Product Details

This beautifully detailed proof coin pays tribute to the Spanish dollar, or 8 Reales (Real de a Ocho)—one of the most influential coins in monetary history and a currency that circulated widely in what is now Canada.

The Spanish dollar was one of the world's first truly global currencies. From the late 15th through the mid-19th century, 8 Reales coins traveled across oceans and continents, facilitating trade and commerce throughout the Americas and beyond. Their consistent weight and purity made them widely trusted by merchants, traders and settlers—including those in what would become Canada.

The Spanish dollar's influence even lives on in modern terminology. Eight Reales coins were often cut into halves or quarters to make smaller denominations, giving rise to the expression “two bits” for a quarter dollar. The Pillars of Hercules depicted on historic Spanish dollars may also have influenced the origin of the modern $ symbol.

Set Highlights:

• Contains two 1 oz .9999 silver coins.
• Limited mintage of only 6,500 sets.
• Your two coins are individually encapsulated and presented in a custom black clamshell, with a black beauty box bearing the logos of the Royal Canadian Mint and The Royal Spanish Mint.
• Obverse: Varies.
• Reverse: Varies.
• Guaranteed by the Royal Canadian Mint.

Own a piece of the currency that helped connect the world. Add this limited-mintage Spanish Dollar Two-Coin Set to your collection today.

Royal Canadian Mint Coin:
The 1 oz .9999 fine silver $20 coin features a modern interpretation of a 1779 Spanish 8 Reales coin. The reverse showcases the crowned Spanish royal arms between the Pillars of Hercules, accompanied by the Latin motto “PLUS ULTRA” (“further beyond”). Historic inscriptions identify the monarch, Mexico City mint mark, denomination and assayer.

Royal Spanish Mint Coin:
The 1 oz .9999 fine silver $20 coin is paired with a Spanish Royal Mint 10 Euro coin, featuring a design inspired by the historic Spanish dollar and its role as a global currency. The coin brings the monetary history of Spain together with the modern Canadian interpretation, creating a distinctive cross-cultural tribute to the Spanish dollar.

The Royal Canadian Mint
Since 1908, the Royal Canadian Mint has been a world leader in producing high-quality coins. They are most well known for the Silver and Gold Maple Leaf coins, but they have also produced numerous award-winning coins and are one of the most innovative mints in the world. The RCM releases new, high-quality coins every month. Browse new and upcoming Royal Canadian Mint products frequently to see updates.