2010 Canada: 25 cents Caribou
Quality BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) — Grade: MS-63 CHOICE
Coin Description
This 2010 25-cent coin marks the return of the classic caribou design after a temporary absence. From 2007 to 2010, the traditional caribou had been replaced to celebrate the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics . The year 2010 thus signifies the grand return of this emblematic motif to Canadian circulation coins, a design created by artist Emanuel Hahn in 1937 and which had not changed for 73 years at the time . The specimen offered, graded MS-63 Choice, shows remarkable preservation with superior visual appeal.
The Obverse (Effigy of Queen Elizabeth II)
The obverse features the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Canadian artist Susanna Blunt, an effigy used on Canadian coins from 2003 to 2023. In accordance with coins from this era, the obverse is adorned with the maple leaf 🍁 at the bottom, a distinctive mark used since 2007. The legend "ELIZABETH II D • G • REGINA" surrounds the royal bust, with the date "2010". For an MS-63 Choice grade, the mint luster is well present, intense and uniform over almost the entire surface, with a nice "cartwheel" effect. Contact marks are minimal and barely visible to the naked eye.
The Reverse (Caribou)
The reverse features the classic caribou design, created by Emanuel Hahn and used since 1937. The head of the animal, an emblematic symbol of Canadian currency, is surrounded by the inscription "CANADA", the denomination "25 CENTS", and the year "2010". In MS-63 Choice, all details of the antlers and fur are perfectly sharp and well struck, without any wear. The "Choice" quality translates into a harmonious balance between luster, surface preservation, and overall visual impact.
Technical Specifications
Condition: MS-63 CHOICE (Brilliant Uncirculated / Mint State-63 Choice)
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Luster: The original luster is well present, intense and uniform over almost the entire surface, with a good "cartwheel" effect.
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Surface: Contact marks are minimal and few. A very slight ding or fine scratch may be observed, but nothing visually distracting. The coin has not circulated.
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Strike: Full strike with all details of the design (caribou, inscriptions) perfectly sharp and well-executed.
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Visual Appeal: An MS-63 Choice grade coin offers an excellent balance between quality and value. The "Choice" designation indicates a coin that stands out for its superior presentation compared to the average MS-63.
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Historical Significance: This 2010 coin is special because it marks the return of the caribou after the Olympic years (2007-2010) .
