2017 1oz $20 UNDER THE SEA: SEA STAR FINE SILVER COIN

Beneath the ocean waves lies a hidden realm filled with enchantment and wonders of all shapes and sizes. Chief among them is the sea star—this salt-water dweller’s distinctive appearance makes it easily recognized in rocky tidal pools and beaches along Canada’s vast coastline; on the reverse of this fine silver coin, it is the “star” element in a design that features stunning colour, detailed engraving and beautifully sculpted glass embellishments.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

SRP: $151.95
Item Number: 156870
UPC: 6-23932-08212-0
Composition: 99.99% pure silver
Mintage: 7,500
Weight (g): 31.39
Diameter (mm): 38
Face Value: $20
Finish: Proof
Edge: Serrated
Artist: Maurice Gervais
Packaging: Maroon clamshell with black beauty box

SPECIAL FEATURES

• SECOND of three 99.99% pure silver coins in a NEW series featuring some of the marvels found in Canadian waters!

• Each coin features a mosaic murrini element! Here, the sea star-shaped glass element is the result of a painstaking process in which different colours of glass rods (stingers) are layered and fused together to form a colourful mosaic that reveals the final image when sliced.

• The handcrafted nature of both the murrini element and its glass enclosure make each coin unique.

• Despite its delicate appearance, the glass embellishment is made from borosilicate glass, which is highly resilient yet lightweight.

• In the background, the coin’s silver surface is artfully integrated to create the illusion of water, while the eye-catching coloured enamel adds vibrancy to the engraved design.

• As with previous glass-embellished coins, the artistry, craftsmanship and limited mintage are sure to make this a highly valued and sought-after collectible!

DESIGN
The reverse design by Canadian artist Maurice Gervais explores the colourful life found in the shallow waters off Canada’s coast. The application of bright coloured enamel over meticulous engraving recreates the otherworldly appearance of the grasses, corals and sponges in this intertidal zone. On the left, a handcrafted embellishment by Canadian glass artist Loïc Beaumont-Tremblay contains a sea star-shaped mosaic murrini element. The mosaic-based approach to this glass art technique lends itself well to recreating the colour and texture of the sea star’s spiny, calcified skin that provides it with a measure of protection against certain predators. The murrini piece is itself protected by the resilient glass enclosure sculpted from borosilicate glass.