First coin in a new series! The Wildlife Reflections series celebrates Canada’s natural beauty through colourful, texturally enhanced depictions of Canadian fauna, beginning with the grizzly bear (Coin #1).

Few mammals are as closely associated with the forested regions of western and northern Canada as the grizzly bear, a true icon of these wild spaces. Ursus arctos is Canada’s largest land-based carnivore, and while its strength is indisputable, this coin’s reverse inspires awe by showcasing a quiet moment at sunrise – and by presenting the mighty grizzly and its salmon prey as a reflection of the ecosystems they inhabit.

Coin 1: Grizzly Bear
Coin 2: Cougar (launches June 25th)
Coin 3: Moose (launches November 5th)

The Design:
Designed by wildlife artist Claude Thivierge, your coin’s reverse features a colourful sunrise that sets the tone for a peaceful river scene, with engraved mountains and forests providing a captivating backdrop. Selective colour extends to both the grizzly bear and its salmon prey, and to their reflection in the water below, while a multi-texture effect mimics the look of fur and creates a shimmering effect on the surface of the water. The obverse features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.  The obverse also bears a special marking that includes four pearls symbolizing the four effigies that have graced Canadian coins and the double date of her reign.

*With the purchase of this first coin, all customers are eligible to receive a free mint branded clamshell case to safety store all three coins.