The Canadian dollar coin, affectionately known as the "Loonie" due to the common loon depicted on its obverse, has become an iconic symbol of Canada. While most Canadians recognize and use the coin daily, a lesser-known, more enigmatic nickname exists: "86." This seemingly random number, applied to a circulating coin, has sparked curiosity and debate for years. Understanding the "86" Loonie requires delving into the coin’s history, exploring the origins of the nickname, and examining the various theories surrounding its meaning.
A Brief History of the Loonie:
Before understanding the "86" Loonie, it’s crucial to appreciate the context of the coin’s creation. Introduced in 1987, the Loonie replaced the Canadian dollar bill, offering a more durable and cost-effective alternative. The decision to replace the bill was primarily driven by economic factors, as coins last significantly longer and reduce the cost of printing and replacing paper money.
The design of the Loonie was the result of a competitive process. The initial design, featuring a voyageur canoe, was intended to be used. However, the dies were lost or stolen en route to the Royal Canadian Mint, prompting the need for a new design. Robert Ralph Carmichael, a wildlife artist, was commissioned to create a new design, which ultimately featured the iconic common loon swimming on a lake. This design has remained largely unchanged since its introduction, solidifying the Loonie’s place in Canadian identity.
The Loonie’s introduction was met with both enthusiasm and skepticism. While many welcomed the convenience and durability of the coin, others lamented the loss of the dollar bill. However, the Loonie quickly gained popularity and became an integral part of everyday Canadian life.
The Enigmatic "86" Nickname: Origins and Theories:
The exact origin of the "86" nickname for the Loonie remains shrouded in mystery, with no definitive explanation universally accepted. Several theories have emerged, each offering a plausible, yet ultimately unverified, explanation for the nickname’s existence.
1. The "86" is Out" Theory:
This is arguably the most widely cited and accepted theory. The term "86" is a common slang term, primarily used in the restaurant and hospitality industry, meaning to remove an item from the menu, to deny service, or to refuse something. The phrase "86 it" is often used to instruct staff to eliminate a particular dish from the day’s offerings due to shortages or unavailability.
The connection to the Loonie could stem from the coin replacing the dollar bill. In this context, "86" represents the removal or elimination of the dollar bill from circulation, making the Loonie the successor. It’s a symbolic representation of the old currency being "86’d" to make way for the new.
This theory is appealing due to its simplicity and relatability. The restaurant industry’s extensive use of the term "86" and its potential association with the dollar bill’s replacement makes it a plausible explanation.
2. The Year of Introduction – 1986 (Almost):
This theory is based on the fact that the Loonie was originally intended to be introduced in 1986. As mentioned earlier, the initial design dies were lost, delaying the coin’s official release until 1987. Proponents of this theory suggest that the "86" nickname is a subtle nod to the coin’s intended launch year, even though it was ultimately released a year later.
While this theory holds some merit, it’s less convincing than the "86 is out" theory. The year 1987, the actual year of introduction, is more directly relevant to the coin’s history. Furthermore, it doesn’t explain why a delayed release would result in the adoption of such a specific numerical nickname.
3. A Code or Inside Joke:
Another theory suggests that the "86" nickname originated as a code or inside joke among employees at the Royal Canadian Mint, coin collectors, or within a specific subculture. This theory posits that the number "86" may have had a particular significance to a specific group of people involved in the Loonie’s creation or distribution.
The plausibility of this theory is difficult to assess due to the lack of concrete evidence. The existence of inside jokes and codes within organizations is common, but without access to historical records or testimonies from individuals involved in the Loonie’s production, it’s impossible to confirm or deny this theory.
4. Numerology or Symbolic Meaning:
Some individuals speculate that the number "86" may have a numerological or symbolic meaning that is relevant to the Loonie. Numerology is the belief in the mystical relationship between numbers and events. In this context, the number "86" could be interpreted as representing a particular quality or characteristic associated with the Loonie.
This theory is highly speculative and relies on subjective interpretations of numerological meanings. The lack of any clear connection between the number "86" and the Loonie’s symbolism makes this theory the least plausible of the four.
5. Random Coincidence:
Perhaps the most underwhelming, yet potentially accurate, explanation is that the "86" nickname is simply a random coincidence. The association between the number "86" and the Loonie may have arisen organically through informal conversations or slang usage, without any specific historical or symbolic connection.
While this explanation lacks the intrigue of the other theories, it’s important to acknowledge the role of chance in the formation of nicknames and slang terms. Sometimes, a nickname simply "sticks" without any clear rationale.
The "86" Loonie in Popular Culture and Usage:
Regardless of its true origin, the "86" nickname for the Loonie has persisted in certain circles, particularly among coin collectors, numismatists, and those familiar with the slang term "86." While not as universally recognized as "Loonie," the "86" nickname serves as a subtle identifier and a marker of insider knowledge.
Online forums and coin collecting communities often feature discussions about the "86" Loonie, with members sharing their own theories and experiences with the nickname. The "86" nickname has also appeared in various online articles and blog posts about Canadian currency, further contributing to its limited, yet enduring, presence in popular culture.
The Significance of the "86" Loonie:
Beyond its literal meaning, the "86" Loonie nickname represents a fascinating example of how slang and cultural references can intertwine with everyday objects. The nickname highlights the human tendency to create narratives and assign meanings to even the most mundane aspects of our lives.
The "86" Loonie also underscores the enduring appeal of mysteries and unsolved questions. The lack of a definitive explanation for the nickname’s origin has only fueled its mystique, making it a topic of ongoing speculation and debate.
Conclusion:
The "86" Loonie remains an intriguing enigma within the realm of Canadian currency. While the precise origin of the nickname may never be definitively established, the various theories surrounding its meaning offer valuable insights into the cultural context and historical circumstances surrounding the Loonie’s introduction.
Whether it represents the "86-ing" of the dollar bill, a subtle nod to the intended launch year, a coded message, a numerological significance, or simply a random coincidence, the "86" nickname has cemented its place in the Loonie’s lore. The next time you encounter a Loonie, consider the mystery of the "86" and the fascinating stories behind this seemingly simple coin. It serves as a reminder that even the most familiar objects can hold secrets and spark curiosity. The "86" Loonie is more than just a coin; it’s a piece of Canadian cultural history, shrouded in mystery and whispered in hushed tones among coin enthusiasts. Its enduring presence speaks to the power of nicknames, slang, and the human fascination with uncovering hidden meanings in the everyday world.