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80th Anniversary of Canada in Japan
In 2009, as Canada celebrates the 80th anniversary of the establishment of its diplomatic
presence in Japan, Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan paid a visit to Canada.
Commemorative Envelope | Commemorative Coin
Commemorative Envelope
On July 8, 2009, Canada Post marked this anniversary and celebrated Their Majesties’ visit with a commemorative envelope. Designed by Céline Morisset, Manager of Graphic Design at Canada Post, the envelope features cherry blossoms and Japanese calligraphy set against a kimono, the traditional clothing of Japan.
“The design, with the vivid colours of the cherry blossom, imparts a sense of flamboyance amid tranquility,” Morisset explains.
A bonsai pine tree was used as the cancellation mark. On the preprinted stamp image, the Canadian and Japanese flags fly side by side against a bright blue sky.
Order the commemorative envelope (1 800 565-4362)
Commemorative Coin
The Royal Canadian Mint launched a special sterling silver $5 proof coin produced in collaboration with the Japan Mint on July 22, 2009. The coin’s 1929-2009 double date marks the 80th anniversary of official diplomatic relations between Canada and Japan.
The main feature of its reverse design is a wilderness scene representing the flora and fauna of both countries: a Canadian white-tailed deer with maple leaf foliage, accompanied by a Japanese shika deer flanked by cherry blossoms. The addition of the Japanese character “Wa” accentuates the theme of harmony.
