2016-07-16 Sat

The second coin of the “Migratory Birds Convention” series was issued by the Royal Canadian Mint to celebrate the 100th anniversary of a 1916 treaty that was signed between the U.S. and Great Britain for wildlife conversation. As per the treaty, it was declared illegal to hunt, take, capture, kill or sell migratory birds their feathers, eggs or nests. The 4-coin series will comprise of four of these lovely migratory species.

The reverse features an American avocet approaching marshy lands with hills and cottonwoods in the background. One of its legs touches the water to reduce its speed. The coloured design beautifully depicts the magnificent bird’s dark bill, cinnamon-coloured neck, black-and-white back and wings; and the blue-grey legs. The obverse features the common portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.

The first coin in this series was the Mountain Bluebird.