The Royal Canadian Mint has introduced a new collection of rare coins to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Calgary Stampede, one of the most iconic events in Canadian history. These new coins feature the Stampede’s rich heritage and other significant Canadian milestones, like the 25th anniversary of the Loonie and the London 2012 Summer Games. In this article, we’ll explore the key features of these collectible coins and their significance.
100 Years of Calgary Stampede: $500 Pure Gold and $50 Fine Silver Coins
The Calgary Stampede, known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” started in 1912. The Royal Canadian Mint has captured the essence of this century-long celebration with 99.99% pure gold and silver coins. These coins showcase classic rodeo imagery like the bucking bronco and the rodeo rider. Designed by Calgary artist Michelle Grant, these exclusive coins have limited availability, with only 200 gold coins and 1,500 silver coins minted.
Key Features of Selected Coins
| Coin | Material | Special Feature | Price (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| $500 Calgary Stampede Coin | Pure Gold (99.99%) | Rodeo imagery, limited mintage | $11,999.95 |
| $50 Calgary Stampede Coin | Fine Silver (99.99%) | Designed by Michelle Grant, only 1,500 minted | $495.95 |
| $1 Two Loons Coin | Fine Silver (99.99%) | Loon design by Richard Hunt | $109.95 |
Coin Availability and Mintage
| Coin | Mintage | Price (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| $500 Pure Gold Calgary Stampede Coin | 200 | $11,999.95 |
| $50 Fine Silver Calgary Stampede Coin | 1,500 | $495.95 |
| Full Pink Moon Coin | 7,500 | $121.95 |
| Gold Fractional Coin Set | 500 sets | $5,499.95 |
25-Cent Coloured Coin and Stamp Set: Calgary Stampede’s 100th Anniversary
Another exciting release is the 25-cent coloured coin and stamp set, commemorating the 100 years of the Calgary Stampede. This cupronickel coin, designed by artist Tony Bianco, features a cowboy riding a bucking bronco. Accompanying the coin are two stamps issued by Canada Post, featuring western riding gear and a Stampede champion belt buckle. The set is priced at $25.95 CAD, making it an affordable collectible.
$1 Fine Silver Coin: Two Loons for the Loonie’s 25th Anniversary
To mark 25 years of the Loonie, the Mint has released a fine silver coin designed by First Nations artist Richard Hunt. The design, called “Two Loons,” features two Common Loons, Canada’s iconic birds. This limited-edition coin, available for $109.95 CAD, pays homage to a beloved national symbol that replaced the one-dollar banknote in 1987.
$1 Fine Silver Lucky Loonie: Supporting Athletes at the London 2012 Summer Games
In honor of Canadian athletes competing at the 2012 London Summer Games, the Royal Canadian Mint has released a fine silver “Lucky Loonie” coin. This 99.99% pure silver coin features a loon spreading its wings, symbolizing good luck for the athletes. Priced at $39.95 CAD, it includes a painted Canadian Olympic Team logo, adding to its collectible appeal.
Bill Reid’s Spirit of Haida Gwaii: Five-Kilo Fine Silver Coin
Bill Reid’s famous sculpture “Spirit of Haida Gwaii” is featured on a five-kilogram fine silver coin, one of the largest and most detailed ever produced by the Royal Canadian Mint. With a limited mintage of only 100 coins, this $9,999.95 CAD masterpiece is an extraordinary tribute to native Canadian art.
Moons of the Algonquin: Full Pink Moon Coin
The Mint concludes its series on Algonquin moon phases with the “Full Pink Moon” coin. This $5 sterling silver and niobium coin features a pink hue symbolizing April’s blooming flowers. Priced at $121.95 CAD, only 7,500 coins are available worldwide.
Gold Fractional Coin Set: Celebrating the Year of the Dragon
To celebrate the Year of the Dragon, the Royal Canadian Mint has introduced a set of pure gold coins in fractional sizes. Designed by Three Degrees Creative Group, these coins depict a mythical dragon, lotus flowers, and clouds of good fortune. With only 500 sets minted, this exclusive collection is priced at $5,499.95 CAD.
Conclusion
The Royal Canadian Mint’s latest collection offers a stunning tribute to Canadian culture, history, and pride. From the 100th anniversary of the Calgary Stampede to the 25th anniversary of the Loonie and celebrations for the 2012 Summer Olympics, these coins are not just collectibles; they are pieces of art and history. Whether you’re a coin collector or a fan of Canadian heritage, these coins provide a unique opportunity to own a piece of Canada’s rich legacy.
FAQ’s
What is the significance of the Calgary Stampede coins?
The Calgary Stampede coins celebrate 100 years of one of Canada’s most famous events, featuring rodeo imagery and limited mintage.
How is the Lucky Loonie connected to the Olympics?
The Lucky Loonie is minted to bring good luck to Canadian athletes competing in the London 2012 Summer Games.
What makes Bill Reid’s Spirit of Haida Gwaii coin special?
This coin is a five-kilogram pure silver masterpiece featuring Bill Reid’s famous sculpture, limited to only 100 coins worldwide.
Why is the Full Pink Moon coin important?
The Full Pink Moon coin is the final release in the Mint’s series celebrating Algonquin moon phases and is known for its vibrant pink color.
How many sets of the Year of the Dragon gold coins are available?
Only 500 sets of the Year of the Dragon fractional gold coin collection are available, making it a highly exclusive release.