2017 Canadian Real Shape Iconic Canada: Bluenose Schooner 100 g Fine Silver Medallion

2017 Canadian Real Shape Iconic Canada: Bluenose Schooner 100 g Fine Silver Medallion

This innovative and visually stunning silver Bluenose Schooner uses new technology and production techniques to showcase one of Canada’s most iconic animals. As a true work of medallic art, the piece is struck in the actual shape of a polar bear. With a weight of 100 grams (3.215 ounces) of .9999 fine silver and a width of about 100 mm, this is a substantial collector piece. The reverse polar bear design comes to life through artistic colouring painted by renowned Canadian artist Trevor Tenant. A brilliant silver border shines around the colour over engraving, while the obverse is presented with a classic proof-like finish.

Bluenose Schooner (second release)

The design on this 100 gram fine silver Real Shape medallic art piece features the Bluenose Schooner as it appeared on Canada’s classic 1929 50 cent postage stamp. The original stamp was designed by the Canadian Bank Note Company, based on a photograph taken by W.R. MacAskill in 1922, just one year after the ship was completed. Rather than adding a different ship in the background, the designers chose to use two images of the Bluenose to provide perspective and a sense of speed.

The Bluenose has earned its place as one of the most iconic images of Canada, and as an enduring symbol of excellence. The story behind the Bluenose can be traced back to 1919, when the hearty fishermen of the Canadian Maritimes scoffed at the America’s Cup race being cancelled because of “strong winds”. While the America’s cup was a race of “recreational yachts”, the fishermen sought to establish their own contest. In 1920, the International Fishermen’s Trophy was established as a prize for “the fastest ship in the North Atlantic fishing fleet”, with a requirement that any ship entered had to be a true working fishing vessel.

Canada faced a great challenge with this new race, as the American fishing vessels were usually smaller and faster. In 1920, the inaugural race was won by a ship from Gloucester, Massachusetts, and the Canadians vowed to defeat their rivals the following year. It was this challenge that inspired Halifax businessmen and Captain Angus Walters to commission W.J. Roué to design a sleek new ship that could beat the New England rivals. The new Bluenose schooner was completed in early 1921, and was designed both as a working fishing vessel and a racing craft. With Angus Walters at the helm, the Bluenose triumphed in its first race, and the ship remained undefeated through an 18 year career. For this work of medallic art in pure silver, the original design has been brought to life with realistic colour by renowned Canadian artist Trevor Tennant.

Packaging

The 100 g fine silver polar bear is encapsulated for protection and presented in a “Magic Frame” for display. The background within the frame includes additional details from the original postage stamp, allowing the shaped image to be beautifully presented in a larger perspective. This series is issued by the Canadian Heritage Mint and includes a certificate of authenticity attesting to the mintage, weight and fineness. As investment quality .9999 fine silver items, this series is HST/GST exempt. 

Note: The photo of this item is a stock image only.

Specifications