Description
In 2006, the Royal Canadian Mint and Canada Post jointly issued a coin and stamp set celebrating the iconic Canadian Forces Snowbirds. The coin is one of the world's first double holographic coins, and features the same two designs as the postage stamps issued by Canada Post. As the coin is tilted in the light, the full colour images change with a dramatic effect. The first image puts us right in the cockpit and provides a first-hand view of the Snowbirds in flight from a pilot's perspective. The second image shows one of the team's hallmark formations and combines a stunning background with transparent effects to create a dynamic image of the Snowbirds in action.
The Snowbirds holographic coin is double struck in .9999 pure silver with a proof quality finish and weighs nearly one full ounce. The nominal face value is $5. The coloured holographic effects are created solely from the refraction of light on the pure silver. The presentation includes a total of four matching 51-cents stamps (two in mint condition, two on a 'uniquely cancelled' souvenir sheet), as well as an interesting full colour booklet and a numbered plaque. The set is presented in a silver metal box in the shape of the Snowbirds logo. Although the maximum authorized mintage was set at 25,555, the actual mintage produced according to the 2007 Annual Report of the Royal Canadian Mint was only 10,034.
