The word ‘Genius’ is banded around far too eagerly and inappropriately in todays soundbite driven culture, but when applied correctly it still has the power to demand respect. Very few people that have ever lived have earned the respect that this man has. Albert Einstein was a German theoretical physicist and amongst his many works he developed the general theory of relativity which along with quantum mechanics, is considered one of the two pillars of modern physics. His most famous equation, E=mc², has transcended the discipline and entered popular culture, such is its importance.

One of the most famous images of the man was taken in 1948 by a Canadian photographer called Yousuf Karsh and it’s reproduced in all its glory on the reverse side of this new ten-ounce silver coin. It’s an unusual size for the RCM, indeed any mint for a coin in proof format, but the benefits are obvious. WIth a 75mm (3″) diameter, the artwork is resplendent with a level of detail and relief that simply isn’t possible on the more common one or two ounce coins. It’s a wonderful piece of work in our opinion, based on a classic image that’s been reproduced with great skill. Packaged in a nice maple wood box, it’s one of the RCM’s best releases so far this year. The only downside is the price of almost $900 CAD, a price that we’d be a little more comfortable with if it were $100-150 lower.

MINTS DESCRIPTION

World-renowned Canadian photographer Yousuf Karsh is known for his famous portraits of Sir Winston Churchill and many other politicians, dignitaries, members of royalty and celebrities, including Albert Einstein, seen here in 1948. 2015 is a year of celebration as the world pays tribute to one of the greatest minds in science. Albert Einstein (1879-1955) shattered long-held beliefs, and propelled physics and astronomy into completely new directions. He revolutionized the way we understand our world, and 60 years after his death, continues to inspire scientists to trust their creative powers as they push the envelope in scientific thinking.

Einstein completed his masterpiece, the General Theory of Relativity, 100 years ago in 1915. An earlier form of his iconic formula, E=mc² had been presented ten years prior as part of his Special Theory of Relativity (1905).

In 1948, one of the world’s most iconic portraits of Einstein was taken by Canadian photographer, Yousuf Karsh (1908-2002).

DESIGN: Royal Canadian Mint engravers have expertly reproduced the original portrait taken by Yousuf Karsh in 1948. As a unique addition, Einstein’s breakthrough formula E=mc² has been included within the image. Karsh, who is renowned for his famous portrait of Sir Winston Churchill, among other politicians, dignitaries, royalty and celebrities, met with Einstein at Princeton’s Institute for Advanced Study in 1948. He took a number of photographs, two of which became the most iconic images of Einstein worldwide. One of them is featured on this coin; its down-to-earth style revealing the humility and humanity behind one of the most powerful minds science has ever known.

PACKAGING: The coin is encapsulated and presented in a Royal Canadian Mint-maple presentation case with a graphic beauty box.

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SPECIFICATION