This large $50 pure silver proof coin is part of a series called “Mythical Realms of the Haida”, and showcases Haida art and culture. The coin contains just over five ounces of pure silver and has an extremely low mintage of just 1500 pieces.  As a pure silver coin issued by the Royal Canadian Mint, it is GST/HST Exempt.  

The Design:

This coin is based on a story known as the Bear Mother Myth. This coin design by Canadian Artist April White-Sgaana Jaad creates an image of a bear holding what appears to be a human child in its arms.  The word “appears” is utilized here because this supernatural being is known to marry human beings, and the cubs of these unions can live as human beings by removing their cloaks. 

He is protecting his child in this design.  The extended tongue represents communication as he shares his wisdom with his offspring.  The lines that encompass the bear represent the full moon; it is here that she teaches him bear songs and stories as she prepares him for life without his father. The front is engraved with the word “CANADA,” the date “2016”, and the denomination “50 dollars”.  

Bear Mother Myth:

The beautiful young daughter of a Chief was out berry picking and neglected the traditional singing to warn the Bears of human presence. This lack of respect for the Bears caused her abduction by the Prince of the Bear People. Her high rank results in their marriage, but relentless pursuit by her brothers to find the lost Princess causes the Prince to flee with her. He hides her high in a tree on a mountain, where she gives birth to twin bear cubs. Ultimately, they are found and as Bear prepares for death he removes the cubs' bear garments and they are transformed into human beings, predestined, like the Bear, to become the greatest of hunters.