2017 Canadian $20 Locomotives Across Canada: RS 20 - 1 oz Fine Silver & Gold-plated Coin

2017 Canadian $20 Locomotives Across Canada: RS 20 - 1 oz Fine Silver & Gold-plated Coin

Face Value: $20
Mintage: 7,500
Composition: 99.99% Silver
Weight (g): 31.39
Diameter (mm): 38
Finish: Proof

Steam locomotives had become too cost-ineffective and labour-intensive, since they required a two-man crew and frequent stops to replenish water and fuel supplies. Also, electric locomotives were not a viable option at the time, given the power infrastructure required to operate them. Thus, the solution lay with the diesel-electric engines that are still the most common type of locomotive propulsion in Canada today.

The first diesel road locomotive built in Canada, the RS 20 is a classic "road-switcher" that was seemingly designed to perform any task, anywhere. Lightweight but powerful, the MLW RS-2 was built in 1949 and was one of eight manufactured by Montreal Locomotive Works. Its 12-cylinder, model 244 engine made it well-equipped for heavy road service in its time; today, the still-operational locomotive can be viewed at Exporail in Saint-Constant, Quebec, where it exemplifies the early wave of diesel-electric engines that superseded Canada's steam locomotives.

All aboard! An ideal gift for any train enthusiast! Order today!

Special features:
SECOND IN SERIES! Your coin is the second in a breathtaking series of three coins that explore Canada's history through some of its most iconic locomotives! Series also includes:

• Coin 1: The 4-4-0 locomotive
• Coin 3: The GE ES44AC locomotive

The RS 20 LOCOMOTIVE! Even the finest details shine in this meticulous design, thanks to a keen attention to historical accuracy, the precision engraving, and the use of multiple finishes that add subtle contrasts.
SELECTIVE GOLD PLATING! The selective application of gold plating places the focus on the early RS-20 road-switcher, which is made all the more visible thanks to the tiger-striped pattern, painted at the front. The rail yard in the engraved background is bustling with activity, and typifies the environment in which these versatile workhorses shine.
GOLD-PLATED RIM! As an added touch to make your coin more special, the rim of your coin is also gold plated!
LIMITED MINTAGE: Only 7,500 coins will be made available worldwide. Hurry and order yours today before they are all gone!
ONE-OUNCE 99.99% PURE SILVER COIN! Your coin is GST/HST exempt!

Design:
Designed by Canadian artist John Mantha, your coin looks back at the first wave of diesel-electric locomotives that were introduced in Canada in the 1940s and 1950s. Used by the Roberval and Saguenay Railway, the RS 20 was the first diesel road locomotive manufactured in Canada, and was built in 1949 by Montreal Locomotive Works. The selective application of gold plating places the focus on the early RS-2 road-switcher, which is made all the more visible thanks to the tiger-striped pattern, painted at the front. The rail yard in the engraved background is bustling with activity, and typifies the environment in which these versatile workhorses shine.

Packaging:
Your coin is encapsulated and presented in a Royal Canadian Mint-branded maroon clamshell with a black beauty box.