Supreme Court of Canada 150
CANADA'S JUDICIAL HEART
Commemorating 150 Years of the Supreme Court of Canada
Guardian of our constitution. Protector of our rights and freedoms. Since 1875, the Supreme Court of Canada has been making important decisions that affect the lives of all Canadians. From civil rights to social policies and personal freedoms, its independent and impartial rulings have a profound impact on our nation and provide the legal foundation for the strong and democratic country we know today.
In honour of the 150th anniversary of the Supreme Court of Canada, the new $1 circulation coin serves as a shining tribute to its unwavering dedication to the rule of law, and its service to Canadians—past, present, and future.
BEHIND THE DESIGN
The Supreme Court of Canada Commemorative Circulation Coin
A tribute to Canada’s top court on its 150th anniversary, the $1 commemorative coin design honours the Supreme Court of Canada’s history and legacy, as well as its continuing contributions to Canada’s legal landscape.
CANADA'S LEGAL BEACON
Understanding One of Canada’s Most Important Institutions
Canadian government is structured through three branches, each with specific powers and responsibilities defined by the Constitution.
The Executive Branch
(Cabinet, the Prime Minister, and Governor General) decides on policy.
The Legislative Branch
(House of Commons and Senate) makes and passes laws.
The Judicial Branch
(the courts) interprets and applies the law.
The Supreme Court of Canada sits at the top of the country’s judicial branch and is the court of final appeal—meaning it is the ultimate authority on all legal matters. It operates separately from other government branches, and in doing so the Court maintains judicial independence and impartiality—fundamental to the framework of a democratic society.
As the last stop on a case's journey through the legal system, the Court hears appeals from lower provincial, territorial, and federal courts. By interpreting the Constitution, including the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and following the rule of law in a fair and consistent manner, the Court’s resulting decisions set a precedent for all lower courts to follow—ensuring stability and consistency in the judicial system nationwide.
Now in Circulation
Now our change will honour the Supreme Court of Canada whose guiding motto of justice and truth has stayed at the heart of all its enduring decisions since 1875.
A HISTORY OF JUSTICE
The Evolution of the Supreme Court of Canada
Created in 1875, the Supreme Court of Canada has evolved over time to become the strong and independent court we know today. Here are some key moments in its development over 150 years of history:
WHERE JUSTICE MEETS TRUTH
Supreme Court of Canada Facts at a Glance
Scroll through to learn more about Canada’s highest court.
AN EMBLEM OF JUSTICE
150 Years of Serving our Country
By rendering fair and impartial judgments, the Supreme Court of Canada’s decisions have shaped, and will continue to shape, our country and democratic society.
On its 150th anniversary, we honour Canada’s highest court with the new commemorative $1 circulation coin—a shining tribute to 150 years of upholding the rule of law, building public trust, and serving our community.
Thank You
The Supreme Court of Canada licensed material is used courtesy of the Office of the Registrar of the Supreme Court of Canada.