2016 3oz $50 WANDUTA: PORTRAIT OF A CHIEF FINE SILVER COIN

In a time when certain cultural practices of Canada’s Aboriginal peoples were regulated or prohibited, individuals such as Wanduta risked prosecution to safeguard their sacred traditions. This fine silver coin honours the Dakota Elder and spiritual healer for his dedication to preserving cultural rites such as ceremonial dances, which are an integral expression of their Dakota identity.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Item Number: 154198
Composition: 99.99% pure silver
Mintage: 1,200
Weight (g): 157.6
Diameter (mm): 65.25
Face Value: $50
Finish: Proof
Edge: Serrated
Artist: Darlene Gait
Packaging: Maroon clamshell with custom beauty box

SPECIAL FEATURES

• A commemoration of one person’s courage and dedication to preserving the cultural traditions of his community and his people.
• Crafted from 99.99% pure silver with a limited mintage.
• Full colour brings this beautifully engraved portrait to life in outstanding detail—from Wanduta’s traditional regalia and headdress, to the King George III medal worn around his neck.
• A stunning addition to any history- or cultural-themed collection, and an excellent opportunity to initiate discussion or raise awareness about the history and traditions of Canada’s Indigenous peoples.

DESIGN
The reverse design by Canadian artist Darlene Gait features a full-face portrait of Wanduta (Red Arrow), a Sioux Valley Dakota Chief who defended the community’s ceremonial dance rites when such activities were prohibited under the Indian Act. The full application of colour over the engraving captures the beautiful complexities of Wanduta’s traditional regalia, circa 1913. Finely detailed engraving adds texture to the eagle feathers that adorn the full headdress, as well as the beautifully coloured beads that are woven in a geometric design on the headband above Wanduta’s brow. Around the spiritual healer’s neck is a treaty medal—a symbolic display of a Dakota leader’s peaceful intentions and a reminder of historic alliances with the British. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.