Last updated on May 2nd, 2024 at 03:31 pm
Last Updated on May 2, 2024 Posted by Colonial Acres Coins
Welcome back to our exploration of the mesmerizing wildlife designs featured on Royal Canadian Mint coins. In this second part of our blog series, we’ll admire the beautiful intricacies of these coins, taking you on a journey through Canada’s vibrant and diverse wildlife, as immortalized in precious metal.
As we continue our journey, we’ll go deeper into nature, taking closer looks at different coins available at Colonial Acres. These coins, each one a testament to the unparalleled artistry and craftsmanship of the Royal Canadian Mint, are not just physical currency but tangible expressions of Canada’s incredible wildlife.
The Art of Robert Bateman: A Walk Through the Wild
Robert McLellan Bateman, born on May 24, 1930, in Toronto, Ontario, is a luminary in the realm of wildlife artistry. A revered Canadian naturalist and painter, Bateman’s acute observation skills and deep appreciation for nature have underpinned his impressive career. His art captures the essence of the wild, rendering animals and their habitats with a realism that communicates both the beauty and the fragility of the natural world. Notably recognized for his impactful and detailed wildlife depictions, Bateman’s work has garnered admiration and respect from art enthusiasts and conservationists alike. He has earned notable honours, including the Order of Canada, for his contributions to art and environmental advocacy.
He has also made his mark on the Royal Canadian Mint’s portfolio with his captivating wildlife masterpieces. These stunning creations bring the spirit and elegance of Canadian wildlife to the world in a truly unique and tangible format.
Check out a few examples of his incredible work below!
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2023 $30 Vantage Point – Bald EagleThis coin is a striking testament to Canadian wildlife. Made from 2 ounces of 99.99% fine silver, this coin features a powerful depiction of a bald eagle, designed by acclaimed wildlife artist Robert Bateman. The reverse side of the coin showcases an engraved rendition of the bald eagle perched majestically on mossy roots, exemplifying strength and resilience in nature. This collectible piece comes in a proof finish, celebrating the distinguished and untamed spirit of one of the most iconic birds in North America. |
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2022 $30 Snowy Owl On DriftwoodAs a quintessential symbol of Canada’s winter wilderness, the majestic Snowy Owl perched gracefully on a weathered piece of driftwood creates a captivating work of art. The contrasting elements of the pristine white feathers against the weathered wood evoke a sense of serenity and harmony, perfectly capturing the beauty and resilience of nature in one mesmerizing image. Its striking design makes it not only a worthwhile investment but also a treasured keepsake capturing the beauty of Canada’s beloved wildlife. |
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A Deep Dive: Exploring Whales on Coins
Beyond birds and beasts, Canada’s wildlife coins also dive into the enigmatic nature of ocean life, featuring majestic whales in their designs. These intricate coins offer an intimate glimpse into the fascinating world of these marine giants. As part of a broader commitment to celebrate and preserve Canada’s diverse wildlife, several coins have featured these marine giants in breathtaking detail, effortlessly capturing their grace and power.
2010 $10 Blue Whale Sterling Silver Coin and Stamp Set
The intriguing design of the Blue Whale distinguishes this coin as a truly exceptional addition to any collection. The coin’s artistry skillfully depicts a majestic blue whale as it submerges beneath the ocean waves. An evocative silhouette of a scuba diver accentuates this remarkable scene, reinforcing the scale and mystery of the underwater kingdom. Infused with such profound details, it resonates with not just numismatists but also lovers of natural beauty, making it a great addition to any collection.
This remarkable set also contains two of the largest stamps ever issued by Canada Post, all enclosed within an elegant maple wood box, with the addition of a full-colour booklet that contains a wealth of information about the magnificent blue whale.
1998 50 Cent Ocean Giants – Whales Sterling Silver 4-Coin Set
If you find yourself captivated by the graceful and majestic nature of whales, this extraordinary set of four coins will undoubtedly capture the true essence of these awe-inspiring creatures. Symbolic of the fascinating aquatic life seen off our coasts, this set showcases four distinct varieties of whales – the imposing killer whale, the melodious humpback, the serene beluga, and the majestic blue whale, each one a compellingly represented in sterling silver. Let’s take a closer look at one of these coins.
1998 Canada Humpback Whale 50-Cent Silver Proof
Depicting a striking image of the humpback whale in action, this 50-cent piece gracefully captures the moment of its descent into the depths of the ocean. With its tail still in the water, the humpback seems poised for a backward dive, echoing the majesty and mystery of Canada’s marine life. Embracing the uniqueness of this scene, this iconic piece demonstrates the fusion of exquisite artistry and coinage craftsmanship, offering numismatists an immersive glimpse of nature’s tranquil beauty.
2011 $3 Wildlife Conservation – Orca Sterling Silver Square Coin
The third edition in a remarkable part of the Wildlife Conservation series, the limited-edition 2011 issue follows the preceding 2010 Barn Owl and Polar Bear releases. Building on the collective narrative of Canada’s biodiversity, each masterpiece carves out its distinctive place in the series’ portfolio.
Notable for its unusual square shape and radiant gold plating, this specimen makes its mark as the fourth of its kind – a testament to cutting-edge craftsmanship and tradition. The 2011 Orca, gracefully captured mid-dive in its oceanic home, becomes more than just an art piece – it’s a tangible bridge between us and the elusive grandeur of Canada’s marine wild.
2005 $20 National Parks – Mingan Archipelago Fine Silver Coin
As part of the beloved National Parks series, the 2005 Canada $20 Mingan Archipelago piece proudly stands as the second release. The Mingan Archipelago is a group of islands located in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence in the province of Quebec, Canada. It’s known for its unique limestone formations and diverse wildlife. The archipelago comprises over 1,000 islands and islets that stretch along the northeastern coast of Quebec. These islands are notable for their rugged cliffs, sea stacks, and monoliths that have been sculpted by the action of the sea over thousands of years.
This park reserve attracts nature lovers, bird watchers, and hikers who come to explore its natural beauty, observe various bird species including the Atlantic Puffin, and may even have a chance to see whales in their natural habitat.
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This coin series truly encapsulates the majestic beauty of Canada’s most treasured natural landscapes, with each issue drawing attention to a unique facet of Canada’s incredible reality. Veering slightly towards the artistic rather than the literal, the Mingan Archipelago release brings a scene of pure maritime beauty to life. A whale tail is elegantly captured in mid-rise, cutting through the surrounding waters with grace and splendour. Set against the backdrop of the ethereal Mingan Archipelago, the sense of grandeur is amplified by the vision of free-flying birds under an open sky. It’s not just a fine collector’s item—it’s also a tiny tribute to the boundless beauty of Canadian wildlife. |
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Capturing Innocence: Baby Animals on Coins
The grandeur of Canada’s wildlife is never more pronounced than in the tender innocence of its young inhabitants. The Royal Canadian Mint, in displaying a wide spectrum of Canadian biodiversity, has curated an 11-piece set that vividly portrays baby animals native to the country. This exclusive selection offers a new and intimate perspective on Canadian fauna.
Each piece in the collection features a beautifully rendered young animal native to Canada. These include baby goats playfully scaling cliffs, baby beavers shaping their habitat, Atlantic puffins readying themselves for their first flight, and young black bears exploring their vast forests. No doubt, the charm of these babies is irresistibly captivating, as the Mint captures their candid moments with an unmatched level of finesse and realism.
Nevertheless, this series delivers more than just an aesthetically appealing line of collectibles. It underscores a deeper narrative, a commitment to commend and preserve Canada’s natural wealth. Essentially, it is an exceptional tribute to nature, highlighting Canada’s bountiful and diverse wildlife neatly painted on a novel platform.
How To Start Collecting Coins
Getting into the world of numismatics is such an exciting way to nurture a new hobby, don’t you think? Walk with us through these simple steps to kickstart your collecting journey, showcasing a love for stunning monetary art and wildlife:
- Define your interest or theme: Begin by identifying what captivates you about these precious keepsakes. Are you allured by the intricate beauty of wildlife designs, or do you prefer historical and commemorative currency?
- Establish a budget: This hobby can range from reasonably inexpensive to significantly pricy. Choose your spending limit wisely according to your financial capacity.
- Secure storage: Owning these treasured pieces means taking perfect care of them. Use albums, boxes, holders, or display cases to protect and preserve the intricate designs.
- Educate yourself: Research your selected area of interest. For instance, if you’re drawn to wildlife-themed collectables, understand the pieces’ significance. A sound knowledge base will greatly enrich your collecting experience.
- Choose a reputable dealer: Be sure you trust your source. Reputable dealers like Colonial Acres Coins offer high-quality pieces to add to your collection.
Buckle up and jump into this world of intriguing currency designs. Don’t forget to savour the journey as much as you’ll enjoy reflecting on your stockpile of carefully curated collectables.
Reach Out To Colonial Acres Today For Wildlife Coins
As we journey through the exquisite designs that capture Canada’s thriving wildlife through the mastery of the Royal Canadian Mint, it is impossible not to appreciate the splendour that these wildlife coins bring. Their intricate designs are not the only traits that make them unique, but also how they tell countless stories of Canada’s biodiversity.
A seasoned and reputable coin dealer bridges the gap between you and these artful treasures. By choosing to enhance your collection today with Colonial Acres, you opt for authenticity, quality, and a vast selection that celebrates various facets of coins to collect. Each piece held will undoubtedly add a touch of history and beauty to your collection.
So why wait? Take a step in deepening your appreciation of Canada’s diverse ecosystems and make these coins part of your cherished collection.
