2012 1/2oz $10 - HMS SHANNON - FINE SILVER COIN

2012: Bicentennial of the War of 1812

The War of 1812 was a fundamental turning point in Canada's history, a struggle from which some of Canada's earliest unifying moments emerged. These stories-including that of the Leda-class frigate, HMS Shannon-have become important chapters in the narrative of Canada's evolution from colony to sovereign nation.

This 34-millimetre coin is certified to be 99.99% pure silver with a metal weight of 15,87 grams. The reverse image features Canadian artist Bonnie Ross' depiction of HMS Shannon leaving the Halifax harbor during the War of 1812. In a strikingly detailed design, the image covers the entire reverse face of the coin. Behind the central image of the vessel, the docks and buildings of early 19th-century Halifax harbor line the left side of the coin, while on the right side a tall ship sails in the distance. The central image is a starboard-side portrait of HMS Shannon rendered in elaborate detail, sails unfurled and filled by a steady westerly wind, jib boom and bowsprit pointed to sea. The foremast, mainmast, and mizzenmast rise regally above the storied frigate, the wind sock atop its mainmast blowing steadily in the wind. Exceptional engraving realistically renders the choppy waters of Halifax Harbour, creating a powerful sense of forward movement. On the polished silver field above and to the right of the ship, a selectively gold-plated cameo presents the original figurehead from the HMS Shannon's bow. The reverse side is engraved with the words 'CANADA,' 'HMS SHANNON 1812-2012,' and the face value of '10 DOLLARS.' The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.

Specifications:
Face Value: 10 dollars
Mintage: 10,000
Composition: 99.99% fine silver
Weight (g): 15.87
Diameter (mm): 34
Edge: Serrated
Finish: Proof

Special Features:
-Created to commemorate the bicentennial of the War of 1812, this unique coin is part of a larger collection celebrating the heroes and events of the War of 1812 a formative event in Canadian history.
-An attractive collectible for numismatists, marine, naval and military enthusiasts, and lovers of Canadian history alike.
-Features Canadian artist Bonnie Ross' depiction of HMS Shannon leaving the Halifax harbor during the War of 1812. The selectively gold-plated cameo in the top right corner of the coin features the original figurehead from the Shannon's bow.
-The stunning image of this emblematic vessel is engraved to the Royal Canadian Mint's exacting standards in 99.99% fine silver.

Packaging:
Coin is encapsulated and presented in a Royal Canadian Mint-branded maroon clamshell case lined with a black flock and protected by a custom War of 1812 themed beauty box that features the HMS Shannon digitally painted by Bonnie Ross.