2016-09-10 Sat

The latest $20 silver coin issued by Royal Canadian Mint features a unique portrayal of a darner dragonfly in niobium. The first of its kind released by the Mint, this handcrafted coin recreates the salient features of the dragonfly beautifully with its magnificent blue and violet colours.

The niobium was treated with electricity for creating a transparent oxide film that refracts light. Different voltages applied on the coin create the different colours.

The coin also depicts a frosted lily pad and ripples of waters that are created from a dragonfly’s landing. Other inscriptions from the reverse include CANADA, 20 DOLLARS, and ED for the artist Damstra’s initials.

The obverse features the common portrait of Queen Elizabeth along with the inscriptions ELIZABETH II, D G REGINA and SG for the artist’s initials.

The 99.99% 31.39 grams pure silver Proof finish $20 coin has a mintage limit of 6,000 and can be purchased for CAD $148.95.