Canada’s Animal Portraits Silver Coins
The Royal Canadian Mint has launched an exciting new coin series, the Animal Portraits silver coins, beginning with a stunning tribute to the polar bear. The new silver coins, which are issued with a proof finish, showcase the magnificent wildlife of Canada, with each design featuring an intricately detailed portrait of the animal surrounded by a selectively gold-plated relief that enhances its visual impact.
The first coin in the Animal Portraits series is dedicated to the polar bear, a symbol of the Canadian Arctic. This majestic creature, known scientifically as Ursus maritimus, is closely associated with Canada, which is home to over two-thirds of the world’s polar bear population. The coin’s design captures the bear in its natural habitat, moving across the snow-covered ice at the edge of the sea. The artwork, created by Canadian artist Trevor Tennant, portrays the bear in exquisite detail, with the animal stepping out from the central portion of the coin, its forepaws extending into the gold-plated area, reinforcing the design’s dynamic and lifelike feel.
the polar bear is depicted on the first of the three gold-plated Animal Portraits silver coins that are issued in 2025 by the Royal Canadian Mint
This selective gold plating highlights the artistry and craftsmanship of the coin, drawing attention to the beauty of both the polar bear and the background. The obverse features the effigy of King Charles III, also selectively gold-plated, with a clear engraving of his likeness by artist Steven Rosati.
This 2025-dated coin is made from 99.99% pure silver, weighs 31.3 grams, and has a diameter of 38 millimetres. The mint has produced a limited run of 7,500 coins, each accompanied by a numbered certificate of authenticity, ensuring their value for collectors.
The Animal Portraits series not only celebrates Canada’s rich wildlife but also provides an opportunity for collectors to acquire beautifully crafted silver coins. The coin is available for individual purchase and also through a subscription, which includes the remaining coins in the series, featuring designs of the elk and grey fox, scheduled for release in July and November, respectively. A special collector’s case to house all three coins is included with the subscription.
This new series from the Royal Canadian Mint is a must-have for both numismatists and wildlife enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of artistry, history, and Canadian heritage.
