This 2015 large and impressive $125 proof fine silver coin weighs half a kilogram, or just over 16 ounces, and is the final coin in a series that highlights ongoing efforts to preserve and protect Canada’s diverse wildlife.  Mintage is limited to just 500 pieces, adding significant scarcity and collectability to the attractive art and impressive silver weight.  As a pure silver coin struck by the Royal Canadian Mint, this item is GST/HST exempt. 

The Design:

The image by Canadian artist Curtis Atwater showcases two narwhals in their native habitat. In the foreground, an adult narwhal remains partially submerged as it lifts its head above water through an opening between the ice floes. Its tusk naturally draws the viewer’s eye upwards to the tapered point, which is extended towards the sky. Beneath the water’s surface, the mottled narwhal uses its tail fins to propel its movements, curving its sleek body to provide lift as it surfaces. Swimming alongside the adult is a juvenile narwhal; armed with its own small tusk, this young narwhal remains submerged as a trail of air bubbles are released from the blowhole atop its domed head. 

The Narwhal:

Often called the unicorns of the sea, narwhals are beautiful creatures with long tusks protruding from their heads. The tusk is actually a tooth that grows from the upper jaw of male narwhals. They can weigh over 1,600 kilos and grow as long as 5 meters in length.  

Most narwhals travel in pods of 10-100 individuals and sometimes in much larger groups. Communication is done through various sounds like squeals, trills and clicks.  Narwhals can dive a mile-and-a-half deep in the ocean. Cracks in the sea ice above allow them to pop up for air when they need it.  The males often cross tusks in a behavior known as ‘tusking’. This may be a form of dueling, friendly contact or cleaning the tooth.