2018 Canadian $1 Burrowing Owl Dollar Specimen Coin

2018 Canadian $1 Burrowing Owl Dollar Specimen Coin

Face Value: $1
Mintage: N/A
Composition: Multi-ply brass-plated steel
Weight (g): 6.27
Diameter (mm): 26.5
Finish: Specimen

Canadian artist Pierre Girard captures the beauty of an endangered prairie species on your one-dollar specimen coin. Viewed from the side, the pigeon-sized burrowing owl presents a three-quarter profile that allows for close examination of its stilt-like legs and mottled plumage. Its head is turned towards the rear as the bird of prey fixes its gaze on something that lies to the right, beyond the coin's rim; this positioning provides a view of the bird's facial features, including the beak and large eyes that give the owl a wise and studious expression. Blades of grass rise up behind it, alluding to its nesting grounds in Canada's open prairies and grasslands, while small mounds of dirt hint at the owl's unique penchant for nesting in underground burrows.

Design:

The obverse design features a bust image of Queen Elizabeth II and the phrase "ELIZABETH II D.G. REGINA".

This reverse designed by Pierre Girard features a Burrowing Owl.