THE STORY BEHIND THIS METAL

This coin has been minted using metal believed to originate from the legendary AVRO ARROW program—one of Canada’s most iconic and controversial aerospace achievements. The material was entrusted to me by a highly respected, retired member of the Canadian Forces whose integrity I hold in the highest regard.

The origin of this metal is steeped in mystery. It came from a hand-built fishing boat found near Algonquin Park, just south of Barry’s Bay, Ontario. According to the story passed to me, the boat was constructed by an expert craftsman—presumably involved in or with direct access to the AVRO program. For reasons thought to be related to national security, the boat was deliberately sunk to conceal its unique metallurgical composition.

Unbeknownst to his father, the builder’s son—who I believe acted in a moment of quiet national heroism—rescued the boat and hid it under a neighbour’s tree, where it remained undisturbed for over half a century. The story of the “Arrow boat” faded into obscurity until, years later, the retired Forces member came forward to share the hidden truth.

We began investigating. We traced the construction techniques and cross-referenced multiple sources to identify the original maker. What we discovered left us stunned. Once we understood the likely identity of the builder, we were both humbled and horrified—we had already begun cutting into what was likely a masterwork by one of Canada’s unknown legends. There was no turning back, so I resolved to honour this legacy in the most meaningful way I know: through fine minting.

Stamped into the boat’s metal were the numbers “1610” in two separate locations. Initially thought to be a part number, it became clear this was symbolic. The AVRO ARROW Mk.1 hit Mach 2.3, reaching speeds of over 1613 km/h (1000 mph) at 50,000 feet—and still climbing like a homesick Canadian angel. “1610” wasn’t just a number; it was a code—an homage known only to those who truly understood what the Arrow meant to this country.

This is more than a coin. It is an artifact. A relic. A tangible connection to a story of Canadian ambition, heartbreak, and pride. As a Canadian artist, I consider it an honour of the highest order to mint a piece from this storied material—a fragment of our national dream.

The Arrow Coin was one of the first tests of our minting system, but it became something far more. A tribute. A remembrance. A spark to inspire future generations with what Canada can achieve when we dare to reach beyond ourselves.

This metal is precious—priceless—and now, it’s yours.

May it serve you with strength, honour, and integrity.

The hearts and souls of millions once soared with the Arrow. I now pass a piece of that legacy to you.