Reverse: Along the rim on top, “CANADA” and the year of issue. In the center, the Royal Hudson Type 4-6-4 locomotive. Along the rim at the bottom, the face value.

Obverse: A portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Along the rim, "Elizabeth II" on the left and "D•G•REGINA" on the right. At the bottom, the Royal Canadian Mint mark.

The Royal Hudson's distinctive semi-streamline design was developed during its first decade of service. The numbers 4-6-4 designate the wheel configuration; in this case four leading wheels, six driving wheels and four trailing wheels.

Hudsons were capable of hauling freight as well as passengers and locomotive 2850 was chosen to transport King George VI and Queen Elizabeth from Quebec City to Vancouver during their royal visit of 1939. Locomotive 2850 set a North American record by completing the 3,061-miles tour on its own. When it returned to regular service, the royal crowns were maintained on its running boards. In fact, all Hudson 4-6-4 semi-streamlined locomotives were fitted with royal crowns in tribute to the locomotive's outstanding service.