1 Dollar - Elizabeth II (Gold Louis)

The 2006 Canadian one-dollar coin featuring Queen Elizabeth II was part of the standard circulation issue for that year, continuing the long-standing tradition of depicting the reigning monarch on the obverse. This specific iteration features the effigy designed by Susanna Blunt, which was introduced in 2003. Blunt, a Canadian artist, intended to present a more contemporary and regal image of the Queen, notably choosing to depict her without a crown, a departure from previous designs that aimed to reflect the evolving identity of the Canadian monarchy.

The coin is colloquially referred to as the 'loonie' due to the common loon depicted on its reverse, a design by artist Robert-Ralph Carmichael that debuted in 1987. The 2006 issue remains a representative example of the Royal Canadian Mint's transition to new plating technologies. While the gold-colored finish often leads to the informal designation of 'Gold Louis' among some collectors, it is important to note that these coins are composed of nickel-plated steel rather than precious metal, serving as a functional piece of Canadian currency rather than a bullion product.