Canadian Maple Leaf Ice Skull Colorized 1 oz Silver 2017 Black Ruthenium
Canadian Maple Leaf Ice Skull Colorized 1 oz Silver 2017 Black Ruthenium is a striking collector coin that combines the classic form of the Canadian Maple Leaf with a modern, dark aesthetic. The issue is based on the official coin of the Royal Canadian Mint and has been enhanced with a full coating of black ruthenium and selective colorization, giving it a unique, almost apocalyptic character.
The coin is struck from pure silver of fineness Ag 9999, with a weight of 1 troy ounce and a diameter of 38 mm. It has a face value of 5 Canadian dollars, confirming its status as legal tender in Canada. The Ice Skull design stands out with a bold style, aimed at collectors seeking unconventional interpretations of classic numismatic motifs.
The entire surface of the coin is coated with Black Ruthenium, which creates a deep, matte-metallic background. Against this backdrop, contrasting colorized elements have been applied, enhancing the three-dimensional effect and the stark “icy” ambience. The issue features an extremely low mintage—just 500 pieces, which significantly increases its collector value. Each coin is delivered in a case along with a certificate of authenticity.
The Royal Canadian Mint, the issuer of the base coin, is among the most renowned mints in the world, famed for top-quality precious metal and precision craftsmanship. The additional enhancement with ruthenium and colorization gives this release the character of a special edition that goes beyond standard bullion issues.
Obverse depicts the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II along with the year of issue 2017. The obverse surface is also coated with black ruthenium, though without the intense contrasts seen in graphic visualizations, which is a natural characteristic of the actual finish.
Reverse shows a frozen ice skull, the main motif of the Ice Skull series. At the top appears the inscription CANADA, on the sides the silver fineness, and at the bottom the inscription FINE SILVER 1 OZ ARGENT PUR. Altogether, it creates an evocative, dark composition that clearly sets this coin apart from classic Maple Leaf issues.