Nature's Impressions: Woodland Caribou 1 oz Silver 2017 Proof
Nature’s Impressions: Woodland Caribou 1 oz Silver 2017 Proof is a Canadian collector coin that uniquely captures the rugged beauty of the northern wilderness and the importance of wildlife to Canada’s identity. The issue belongs to the acclaimed Nature’s Impressions series, in which the Royal Canadian Mint experiments with form and texture, extending natural motifs beyond the traditional reverse field.
Despite its vast area, Canada remains a country of extensive, almost untouched wilderness. One of its most characteristic inhabitants is the woodland caribou—an animal that has been vital to the First Nations for centuries, both as a source of food and as a part of culture and spirituality. Today, the caribou has become a symbol of harmony between people and nature, and its image has found a worthy place in numismatics.
The coin is struck from 99.99% pure silver (Ag 9999), weighing 1 troy ounce and measuring 38 mm in diameter, in the prestigious Proof finish. Its denomination is 20 Canadian dollars, granting it legal tender status in Canada. The mintage is limited to 7,500 pieces, each presented in an elegant mint case with a certificate of authenticity.
Special attention is due to the coin’s innovative edge. This is the first Royal Canadian Mint issue to feature so-called edge striking—instead of traditional reeding, the coin’s edge is adorned with realistically rendered caribou hoofprints running around the entire circumference. This detail not only distinguishes the coin technologically, but also reinforces its nature-driven narrative.
The obverse features the classic portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt, accompanied by the issuing country’s name, the face value, and the year of issue 2017.
The reverse, designed by Claudio D’Angelo, depicts a woodland caribou traversing a snowy landscape at the edge of the boreal forest. Clear tracks are visible in the snow, and the composition emphasizes the realism of the scene and the serene, contemplative character of Canada’s wilderness.