Canada, 10 Cent Piece, from the series Coins of All Nations (N72, variation 2) for Duke brand cigarettes 1889

This late 19th-century lithograph by W. Duke, Sons & Co., features a whimsical personification of a Canadian ten-cent coin, part of a series for Duke brand cigarettes. The central figure, adorned in snowshoes and a cap, is a symbolic embodiment of Canada, reflecting the nation’s association with winter. The crown on the coin denotes sovereignty, a motif resonating from ancient empires to modern nation-states, each adapting the symbol to legitimize authority. This symbol isn't static; it's a palimpsest, accumulating layers of meaning with each iteration. Consider the image of the child. Childhood is often seen as a time of purity. However, childhood can also be related to vulnerability. This evokes a powerful, subconscious response, tapping into our understanding of innocence and fragility. These symbols don't merely depict; they stir deep within our collective memory. Through time, symbols such as the crown and the child are repeated and reinterpreted. Their meanings evolve, reflecting humanity's ceaseless quest to understand and express its place in the world.