This $20 pure silver coin is the first in a new series from the Royal Canadian Mint of wildlife portraits that takes a more contemporary approach to design, by merging a realistic depiction with one based on pure geometry. Canada’s most recognizable fauna are synonymous with a natural heritage that is an enduring source of pride for Canadians.  A timeless symbol of strength, agility and resilience in the wild, the grey wolf is the first of three iconic species featured in this geometric art-themed series, which combines two distinctive art styles (low poly art and realism) to produce one contemporary design that conveys extraordinary depth and motion  

This unusual and visually striking coin weighs just over one ounce of pure silver with a large 40 mm diameter, and has a limited mintage of just 6,000 pieces.  As a pure silver coin struck by the Royal Canadian Mint, this item is HST/GST exempt.     

 The Design:

Designed by Canadian artist Claude Thivierge, the reverse presents a misty, moonlit night, as the wolf moves swiftly and silently down a rocky outcrop in Canada’s boreal forest. Bold colour over the engraved relief brings the landscape to life through a wealth of textural details that add a realistic touch to this multi-layered design. The coin’s silver surface is visible within the two engraved wolves, which are comprised of multiple polygon shapes that define the low poly art style. In spite of the straight lines and pointed edges, each shape is carefully positioned to convey the natural curves of the grey wolf’s familiar outline, while various finishing techniques mimic the effect of light and shadows. One wolf’s instinctive leap suddenly creates the illusion of movement, transformation and the “shattering” of boundaries—those of its geometric form, and the reverse image itself—as its depiction artfully transitions.