03/29/2026
✈️♀️🇨🇦
Elsie MacGill was a trailblazing Canadian engineer and women's rights advocate, known for her significant contributions to the field of aeronautical engineering.
Elsie MacGill was the world’s first woman to earn a master’s degree in aeronautical engineering and is often remembered as the first female aircraft designer.
During World War II, Elsie was responsible for the production of Hawker Hurricane fighter planes at the Canadian Car and Foundry Company in Fort William, Ontario.
Under her leadership, the factory produced over 1,400 aircraft.
Elsie MacGill's significant role in the production of the Hurricane fighter planes during World War II earned her the nickname "Queen of the Hurricanes.
MacGill was a fervent advocate for women's rights.
Involved in various commissions and committees focusing on women's issues, including the Royal Commission on the Status of Women in Canada.
Her legacy in aviation and women's rights continues to be celebrated in Canada and internationally.
Her pioneering work and dedication not only broke gender barriers in engineering and aviation but also left a lasting impact on the fight for women's equality in Canada and beyond.
FEATURES
Country - Canada
Year - 2023
Face Value - 1 CAD
SPECIFICATIONS
Composition - Multi-ply brass-plated steel
Weight - 6.27g
Diameter - 26.5 mm
Mintage - 15,000
Artist - Claire Watson (reverse), Susanna Blunt (obverse)