2015 1/2oz $10 COLOURFUL SONGBIRDS OF CANADA: THE NORTHERN CARDINAL FINE SILVER COIN

With its brilliant red plumage and a distinctive crest atop its head, the Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) easily draws attention to itself wherever it is found. From southern Manitoba east to the Atlantic provinces, the beloved cardinal is one of many colourful songbird species that are testament to the inspiring beauty of nature in Canada.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Item Number: 141271
UPC: 6-23932-06149-1
Composition: 99.99% pure silver
Mintage: 15,000
Weight (g)*: 15.87
Diameter (mm): 34
Face Value: $10
Finish: Proof
Edge: Serrated
Artist: Derek C. Wicks
Packaging: Marron clamshell with black beauty box

SPECIAL FEATURES

• The first coin in a new 5-coin series entitled Colourful Songbirds of Canada, which captures the beauty of some of Canada’s most distinctive bird species.
• This time, the RCM celebrates the Northern Cardinal, whose song and bright colour have made it a favourite among bird watchers and nature lovers.
• The reverse image was designed by award-winning artist Derek C. Wicks, who was twice named the National Artist of the Year by Ducks Unlimited Canada.
• This 99.99% pure silver coin shows application of selective colour to the engraved northern cardinal and recreates the vibrancy of the bird’s colouring in the wild.
• The Colourful Songbirds of Canada Series is also offered as a “new” 5-coin subscription! The coins will be launched monthly from March 2015 to July 2015.

DESIGN
The reverse design by Canadian artist Derek C. Wicks features a beautiful rendition of a northern cardinal in a tranquil setting. Finely detailed engraving showcases this songbird’s distinctive features – from the pointed crest atop its head to its thick, short bill, as well as the soft feathers that lead to its tail. The use of selective colouring recreates the northern cardinal’s brilliant red plumage viewed in three-quarter profile, as the bird sits nestled amidst engraved leaves and flower blossoms.

OTHER COINS
Product: The Magnolia Warbler
Launch date: April 7, 2015

Product: The Blue Jay
Launch date: May 5, 2015

Product: The Baltimore Oriole
Launch date: June 2, 2015

Product: The Violet-green Swallow
Launch date: July 7, 2015

SUBSCRIPTION BOX
The RCM will offer a unique box to store your 5 coins and it will be shipped to you with the fifth and final coin part of this 5-coin subscription program.