Canada puts filigree on a coin for the first time with the Enchanted Garden

Another bumper release run from the Royal Canadian Mint this month brings with it the usual mix of maple leaves, Canadian life and experimentation that the RCM has become known for. Fitting firmly into the latter category is theis new two-ounce silver coin called Enchanted Garden. On the surface just another coloured silver coin, this one has an unusual decoration on the reverse face.

The base design is simple enough and well done; a coloured depiction of a garden in bloom is a simple job for the RCM, but mounted to the face of the coin is a white bronze filigree representation of a garden gate that curves out to give a three-dimensional look to the finished article. Finished to look like the metal commonly found on this type of gate, it’s a clever idea that they’ve implemented well. You’ll either love it or hate it, but it’s certainly innovative.

The obverse of the coin features the Susanna Blunt effigy of Queen Elizabeth II in the standard clean form. Packaging is the usual maroon snapper box, a little disappointing given the thought that’s gone into the coin itself. A serialised certificate of authenticity notes which of the 5,500 being struck that you have. Selling for $239.95 CAD, the coin is available now from the RCM estore or from the myuriad number of dealers worldwide selling their coins.

2017 ENCHANTED GARDEN PROOF SILVER COIN

MINTS DESCRIPTION

To some, gates are a way to keep people out—but they can also be a beautiful invitation to enter. The intricate scrollwork of a filigree garden gate sets an elegant tone and catches the eye, beckoning you to look at what secret lies beyond it: a stunning display of nature’s brightest colours, in all shapes and sizes!

A garden in full bloom is a world within a world; it’s where nature and art are intertwined. In this carefully cultivated midst, the deliberate arrangement of trees, shrubs, plants and pathways have an enchanting effect on the senses. There’s a prevailing sense of peace and calm as you move further into this magical setting, where the scents and sights mingle to invite reflection and relaxation at every turn.

DESIGN: Inspired by gardens across Canada, your coin design pays tribute to nature’s beauty and the artistic endeavours of Canadian gardeners. At first glance, there’s a prevailing sense of enchantment and mystery thanks to the filigree gate that stretches across the reverse. Fashioned from white bronze and inspired by an 18th century design, the filigree garden gate by Canadian artist Margaret Best has an intricate, almost delicate appearance that belies its resilience.

The coin’s large diameter (50 mm) allows a breathtaking mix of colour-over-engraved details behind the gate, as the eyes wander down the stone pathway leading to the cottage. Designed by Canadian artist Tony Bianco, this magical summer garden brings together some perennial garden favourites in Canada: a climbing rose, hydrangea, phlox, bee balm, salvia and rudbeckia. All are depicted in full bloom, which heightens the larger-than-life quality of this picture-perfect setting. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.

SPECIFICATION

NAME 2017 ENCHANTED GARDEN
DENOMINATION $30 Canadian
COMPOSITION 0.9999 silver
WEIGHT 62.69 grams
DIAMETER 50.00 mm
FINISH Proof
MODIFICATIONS Colouring and pronounced filigree
MINTAGE 5,500
BOX / COA Yes / Yes
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