2015 1oz $20 MAJESTIC ANIMALS - ELK FINE SILVER COIN

To view an elk or wapiti (Cervus canadensis) in the wild is to catch a glimpse of one of Canada’s most majestic animal species. Armed with impressive antlers that give it a stately air, the elk moves through the wilderness with a steady, confident gait as it browses for the vegetation that sustains it throughout the seasons. With this coloured fine silver coin, the Royal Canadian Mint celebrates this wild animal species – one that delights wildlife watchers and contributes to Canada’s rich biodiversity.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Item Number: 144305
UPC: 6-23932-06599-4
Composition: 99.99% pure silver
Mintage: 6,500
Weight (g): 31.39
Diameter (mm): 38
Face Value: $20
Finish: Proof
Edge: Serrated
Artist: Maurade Baynton
Packaging: Maroon clamshell with custom beauty box

SPECIAL FEATURES

• This timeless portrait of an elk in its natural habitat captures the beauty and majesty of both the western Canadian wilderness and a majestic animal species that is part of Canada’s rich biodiversity.
• Highly detailed engraving, a multi-finish background and the use of colour combine to bring depth and texture to the design, which exemplifies the outstanding artistry and craftsmanship for which the Royal Canadian Mint is internationally renowned.
• A celebration of Canada’s biodiversity.
• An impressive addition to nature-, wilderness- or Canadiana-themed collections.

DESIGN
The reverse image by Canadian artist Maurade Baynton features a striking portrait of an elk, which is rendered in exquisite detail through expert engraving and selective colour. The majestic, tan-coloured elk stands tall in an open grassland area at the edge of a boreal forest that is resplendent in the green colours of summer. Perhaps hearing a call from a nearby herd or the warning sound of birds suddenly taking flight, the elk’s head is turned to its right as it lifts its gaze upward to the sky; this allows the viewer to glimpse its beautiful facial features in side profile, along with the long, darker-coloured mane that covers the elk’s neck. Its distinctive, wide antlers are prominently displayed in the centre of the image field, where they seem every bit as majestic as the rugged mountain peaks seen in the engraved background.