Nature's Impressions: Polar Bear 1 oz Silver 2017 Proof
Nature’s Impressions: Polar Bear 1 oz Silver 2017 Proof is the second installment of the prestigious Canadian Nature’s Impressions series, issued by the Royal Canadian Mint. This series stands out for its innovative approach to coin design, combining classical minting artistry with elements that literally “extend beyond the edge” of the traditional design.
The polar bear has for centuries remained one of the most recognizable symbols of Canada’s North. This powerful predator, perfectly adapted to life in the extreme conditions of the Arctic, moves confidently across deep snow, fragile ice, and icy waters alike. Its presence reflects the starkness, strength, and beauty of Canada’s northern landscapes, which inspired this exceptional issue.
The coin is struck from 99.99% pure silver, with a weight of 1 troy ounce (31.39 g) and a diameter of 38 mm, in Proof quality. It carries a face value of 20 Canadian dollars, conferring legal-tender status. The mintage is strictly limited to 7,500 pieces, underscoring its distinctly collectible nature.
A distinctive feature of this series is the ornamented edge. Instead of classic reeding, the coin’s edge is adorned with precisely engraved polar bear paw prints running continuously around the entire circumference. This detail provides a coherent and symbolic complement to the main motif and sets the coin apart from other silver issues.
The whole has been executed using a variety of finishing techniques that emphasize the sculpted details, fur texture, and Arctic backdrop. The coin is offered in the original Royal Canadian Mint case with an accompanying certificate of authenticity, making it an attractive choice for both seasoned collectors and wildlife enthusiasts.
Obverse of the coin features the classic effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Susanna Blunt. The design is completed by royal inscriptions.
Reverse, by Claudio D’Angelo, depicts a detailed profile of the polar bear (Ursus maritimus) striding across the icy Arctic landscape. The animal raises one paw mid-stride, with ice floes, open water, and distant glaciers visible in the background. The composition is completed by the characteristic paw prints engraved on the coin’s edge, which lend the entire design exceptional dynamism and realism.