Note:

Queen Victoria was well loved in Canada throughout her reign; and was influential in Canadian history both prior to and during confederation, having chosen Ottawa as the nation’s capital, and for voicing her support for Canadian sovereignty. In 1867 she met with John A. Macdonald and four Fathers of Confederation in London, where she expressed her approval for the creation of the Dominion of Canada.

The 1897 Diamond Jubilee was celebrated across the Commonwealth, commemorating the 60th anniversary of Queen Victoria’s accession to the throne. It was an occasion that highlighted the monarch’s role in the expansion of the British empire. Prime Minister Sir Wilfred Laurier, after receiving the honour of the Knight Grand Cross, took part in the parade on June 22nd, following the Canadian cavalry, riding five abreast. Likewise, Queen Victoria’s personal Jubilee message to the empire was broadcast on June 22nd in which she stated, “From my heart I thank my beloved people. May God bless them." The Canadian Governor General promptly responded, on behalf of Canada, “…We offer the glad tribute of loyal devotion and affectionate homage. God save and bless the Queen."

This medal, decorated with a beaver, maple leaves and the Canadian Red Ensign (which served as Canada’s national flag until 1965) alongside the portrait of the Queen, demonstrates that Canada had formed its own national identity, but remained loyal to the British monarchy.