Description
This 2014 $1250 pure gold coin is a first for the Royal Canadian Mint, offered in a precedent-setting half-kilogram size! Struck in over 17 ounces of fantastic 99.99% pure gold, and boasting a generous diameter of 85.35mm, this coin has an extremely low mintage of only 25 coins. As a pure gold coin, this item is GST/HST-exempt.
The Design:
The striking portrait on the reverse of this coin by Canadian artist Pierre Leduc is a life-like depiction of a howling wolf, poised in a tell-tale stance indicating we are catching the predator mid-howl. The ancient sound of a wolfs howl carried on the wind in the dark of night can make one's blood run cold. A Proof finish-the highest quality strike offered by the Mint-with a mirror-like background and enhanced engraved areas add to the folds and ripples of the wolfs luxurious coat, resulting in a haunting interpretation of this Canadian symbol. The word "CANADA" and the year "2014" elegantly curve around the rim of the coin.
The Wolf:
The wolf is the largest wild member of the dog family. It can be many colours, from white to black, but most often grey. Similar to a German shepherd in size, but leaner with bigger feet and longer legs, wolves live in packs of three to seven. The pack is hierarchal, and each wolf has its own place in the group. The dominant wolf, or alpha male, stands tall with its ears up and forward. Around the alpha male, lesser-ranked wolves crouch with their tails between their legs, and lower their ears. Because these gestures are all understood by the pack, there is relatively little aggression within the order.
