Description

Description

The Noble Bison

Crafted in pure silver and adorned with vibrant, selective colouring, this exquisite coin pays homage to one of Canada's most legendary and revered creatures: the bison. A central figure in the folklore, songs, and traditions of the Plains First Nations, the bison was a lifeline to Indigenous peoples, representing abundance and survival on the vast prairies. This one-ounce silver coin, with a $20 face value, showcases the grandeur of the bison as a proud emblem of Canada’s sweeping grasslands.

Designed by Canadian artist Doug Comeau, the reverse features a striking image of a plains bison captured in its natural habitat. Positioned in a three-quarter view, the mighty animal grazes amid rolling hills, with towering trees accentuating its immense size. Selective colouring brings the bison to life, highlighting its coarse, dark-brown fur and its signature shoulder hump with remarkable realism. With its head lifted and gaze cast into the distance, the creature exudes a serene strength. Around its feet, the richly coloured grasses and wildflowers reflect the diversity of prairie flora, while finely engraved hills and forests frame this snapshot of untamed Canadian wilderness.

The Audacious Black Bear

Long a powerful figure in the stories and beliefs of Indigenous cultures, the black bear (Ursus americanus) symbolizes strength and curiosity. Known as a fearless explorer, especially when driven by hunger, this iconic forest dweller is honoured in a breathtaking fine silver coin. Through a combination of expert engraving, selective colouring, and multiple finishes, the coin offers a vivid and lifelike encounter with this remarkable animal.

Artist Pierre Leduc’s reverse design captures the bear’s powerful stance in a natural woodland clearing. Seen from a three-quarter angle, the bear’s size and presence are emphasized as it places its front paws on a rock in the foreground. Its face, turned to look straight ahead, reveals an inquisitive expression and meticulously detailed features. The bear’s dark fur and lighter snout are rendered with selective colour to enhance the engraved textures. Set against the backdrop of a forested hillside, the scene is rich with visual contrast, from vibrant vegetation to the natural tones of logs and stones.

The Elusive Canadian Lynx

Native to the boreal forests that stretch across much of Canada, the Canadian lynx (Lynx canadensis) is both mysterious and striking. Adaptable and resourceful, this skilled predator embodies the rugged elegance of the northern wilderness. This fine silver coin captures the essence of this solitary wildcat, known for its stealth and striking appearance.

Illustrated by Canadian artist Denis Mayer Jr., the coin’s reverse shows a lifelike portrayal of the lynx perched atop a rocky ledge. With its body lowered in a watchful crouch and its head turned to the side, the lynx surveys its surroundings with quiet intensity. The selective colour application draws out the depth of its multi-toned fur, the tufted ears, and the distinctive ruff framing its face. Around its paws, the natural hues of moss and grass add a vibrant contrast to its pale coat, while the intricately engraved forest forms a dramatic and fitting backdrop for this elusive predator.

The Majestic Red-Tailed Hawk

Graceful, sharp-eyed, and swift, the red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) is a master of the skies across Canada’s open landscapes. Celebrated for its strength and precision, this raptor is a powerful symbol of resilience. Captured in brilliant fine silver, this coin reflects the hawk’s predatory prowess and awe-inspiring presence.

Artist Emily Damstra’s reverse design offers a dramatic ground-level perspective—placing the viewer in the position of the hawk’s prey. The bird is shown mid-dive, wings fully extended and talons outstretched, with its fierce gaze fixed forward. Intricate engraving brings out the detail of each feather, while selective colours reproduce the reddish-brown and cream markings of the western subspecies. Behind the bird, the towering mountain ranges and forests of Western Canada reinforce the sense of wild majesty in this sky-bound predator’s domain.

The Sovereign Bald Eagle

Dominating the skies above forest and water, the bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is an unrivaled symbol of strength and leadership. As Canada’s largest bird of prey, its commanding presence is celebrated in this stunning silver coin—part of the 2016 continuation of the Majestic Animal series.

Renowned wildlife artist Glen Loates brings the scene to life, depicting a bald eagle as it lands gracefully atop a leafless treetop. Shown in a right-side profile, the eagle spreads its vast wings in preparation to perch, its sharp talons extending and its beak parting in a piercing cry. Selective colour distinguishes the rich contrast between its dark plumage and the brilliant white of its head and tail, with bright yellow accents on its beak, eyes, and legs. A second eagle, finely engraved, observes from a nearby branch. The entire scene is framed by dramatic mountain peaks and a sky heavy with clouds, capturing the eagle’s regal dominance over the wild Canadian landscape.

A Collector’s Treasure

These beautifully crafted coins are ideal for collectors of wildlife, Canadian heritage, or the great outdoors. Each piece is a tribute to a unique species that defines Canada’s natural legacy. A thoughtful gift for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.