2007 Canadian $4 Fossilized Dinosaur: Parasaurolophus Fine Silver Coin

2007 Canadian $4 Fossilized Dinosaur: Parasaurolophus Fine Silver Coin

It is a discovery that sends hearts pounding - and opens a window to the mystifying world of dinosaurs. Their fossilized bones testify to the massive beasts that once ruled the earth but disappeared suddenly 65 million years ago. During the time of these great beasts, a great inland sea covered much of western Canada and the area now known as Alberta and Saskatchewan was a lush subtropical shore - and home to over 35 dinosaur species.

As these animals died, the evolving landscape covered their bones with centuries of mud and sand - only to be revealed when the glaciers from the last Ice Age scraped away the top layers of rock and exposed bits of fossilized bone. Discovered by paleontologists in the late 1800's, they inspired generations of dinosaur hunters and established Canada as one of the richest sources of Late Cretaceous fossils on earth.

Parasaurolophus was one of 12 duck-billed dinosaurs that flourished throughout Alberta between 65 and 76 million years ago. It is easily identified by the six-foot long crest curving out from the back of its head which paleontologists believe was used for communication - an important capability for these rather docile herbivores that relied on their herds for protection.

Design

A selective aging effect creates a powerful impression of fossilized bones in stone. In fact, this technique ensures no two coins are exactly alike. Each 99.99% pure silver coin is unique and—with a design that was developed in close collaboration with palaeontologists at Alberta’s Royal Tyrell Museum—is an original and compelling keepsake of one of humanity’s great fascinations.

Packaging

2007 Canadian $4 Fossilized Dinosaur: Parasaurolophus Fine Silver Coin comes encapsulated in Royal Canadian Mint clamshell case with black outer sleeve and Certificate of Authenticity.

Specifications

Face Value: $4
Mintage: 20,000
Composition: 99.99% silver
Weight (g): 15.87
Diameter (mm): 34.0
Finish: Proof

Design: