1996 Canada $2 Polar Bear Toonie Piedfort Sterling Silver Coin

1996 Canada $2 Polar Bear Toonie Piedfort Sterling Silver Coin

The 2-dollar coin was first introduced on February 19, 1996, to replace the 2-dollar bill. The 'Toonie' has a life span approximately 20 times longer than paper currency and is manufactured using a distinctive bi-metallic coin locking mechanism patented by the Royal Canadian Mint.  

Two Dollars - Elizabeth II Crowned/Polar Bear Piedfort Sterling Coin

The origin of the Piedfort can be traced to the twelfth century. It is characteristically struck from an abnormally thick planchet and is heavier than its circulating conterpart. Piedforts were minted as patterns in medieval France and Britain, where they helped to standardize coinage. The French kings also used them as presentation pieces.

Your 1996 Proof Silver $2 Piedfort marks the introduction of the bi-metallic $2 coin to this country. This is the first time that the Royal Canadian Mint issues a piedfort.

Specifications

Face Value: $2
Mintage: 11,526
Ring Composition: 92.5% Ag, 7.5% Cu
Core Composition: 92.5% Ag, 7.5% Cu
Weight (g): 17.66
Diameter(mm): 28.07
Finish: Proof