Description
Famous for its winter hibernation, the woodchuck (Marmota monax) ventures out of its underground burrow during the warmer months to sun itself or find food; but when it’s not eating, the woodchuck (or groundhog) is typically caring for its young. This fine silver coin captures a tender moment between mother and offspring in a continuing celebration of family bonds among Canada’s iconic animal species.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS:
SRP: $99.95
Composition: 99.99% fine silver
Mintage: 5,500
Weight (g)*: 31.39
Diameter (mm): 38
Face Value: $20
Finish: Proof
Edge: Serrated
Artist: Michelle Grant
Packaging: Maroon clamshell with black beauty box
Finished size: 67 mm x 67 mm
Master Pack: 75
SPECIAL FEATURES:
- A famous hibernator is the subject of the 11th coin in this beloved series, which showcases baby animals in the Canadian wilderness!
- Selective colour showcases the young woodchuck and the colourful vegetation that has caught its eye, while detailed engraving conveys a mother’s protective nature.
- Crafted from 99.99% pure silver with a limited mintage of 5,500.
- A meaningful, heart-warming gift that celebrates family bonds or a momentous first step!
- A wonderful addition to any Canadiana-, wildlife- or nature-themed collection.
- Subscribe today to get all four Baby Animals coins issued in 2016.
DESIGN:
The reverse design by Canadian artist Michelle Grant features colour over the engraved portrait of a young woodchuck in its native environment. Barely two months old, the young is weaned from its mother’s milk and has ventured out of its underground burrow to sample nearby grasses and wildflowers. The application of selective colour over engraving captures the young woodchuck’s likeness, particularly the texture and dark colour of its fur. Placing its weight on its hind feet, the pup sits upright and uses its clawed forepaws to bring a flower to its mouth for a tentative nibble! The use of colour also draws the eye to the surrounding vegetation, where alfalfa and yellow clover offer up a veritable feast for this youngster. To the left, detailed engraving depicts a protective mother keeping a watchful eye on her young from the opening of the burrow, which is surrounded by grass and dirt at the foot of a large boulder. Also engraved on the reverse are the word “CANADA”, the face value “20 DOLLARS” and the year “2016”. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.
