Description
This 2018 five ounce $50 fine silver coin features a polar bear soapstone sculpture that pairs a traditional soapstone sculpture with contemporary coin-making techniques. Engraving recreates the rough edges of the ice on the reverse, while translucent colour enamel adds a deep blue hue to the Arctic waters. With a 65.25 mm diameter, the coin’s surface provides a large base for the soapstone sculpture, while proof-quality 99.99% pure silver mimics the light-reflective nature of the Arctic landscape. A dome-like capsule will keep your coin safely protected from the elements. Mintage is extremely limited to only 1,300 coins. As a pure silver coin issued by the Royal Canadian Mint, this item is GST/HST exempt.
The Design:
In a landscape carved by ice and wind, the polar bear remains the unchallenged titan of the Arctic. Its unmistakable profile lends itself to sculptured works of art – particularly the soapstone piece on the reverse of this FIVE ounce fine silver coin.
The natural beauty of Northern Canada shines bright on the reverse, thanks to a harmonious mix of finishing techniques and a polar bear soapstone sculpture that makes each coin unique. As it does for Arctic marine life, ice floe provides the foundation for this design: engraving provides a life-like textural effect, while a special frosting gives the snow-covered ice a more matte-like appearance. The surrounding water is a sparkling shade of blue, thanks to the application of translucent enamel over the proof finish. But the focal point is undeniably the sculptured piece that rises up from the ice floe: each polar bear sculpture has been hand-carved from Canadian soapstone by Canadian artist Dave Zachary and his team of sculptors. With its gaze fixed on what lies ahead, the polar bear cuts a formidable figure in this Arctic landscape, where it is regarded as an icon of strength and endurance.
