2010 Canada: 25 cents Caribou
Quality BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) — Grade: MS-64 CHOICE +
Coin Description
This 2010 25-cent coin belongs to the long line of caribou 25-cent coins, an emblematic design introduced in 1937. The year 2010 is particular as it marks the return of the caribou to circulation coins after a temporary absence due to the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games commemorative coins (2007-2010). The specimen offered, graded MS-64 Choice +, represents an exceptional state of preservation with remarkable 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-64 Choice + grade, the mint luster is brilliant, intense, and perfectly uniform across the entire surface, with a superb "cartwheel" effect. Contact marks are virtually absent to the naked eye; only microscopic imperfections may be detected with a magnifying glass, and nothing distracts the eye.
The Reverse (Caribou)
The reverse features the classic caribou design, created by Emanuel Hahn and used since 1937. The animal's head, an emblematic symbol of Canadian coinage, is surrounded by the inscription "CANADA", the value "25 CENTS", and the year "2010". In MS-64 Choice +, all details of the antlers, fur, and eye are perfectly sharp, with a full strike. The "Choice +" quality indicates a coin that surpasses the average MS-64 due to its harmonious balance and superior presentation.
Technical Specifications
Condition: MS-64 CHOICE + (Brilliant Uncirculated / Mint State-64 Choice +)
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Luster: The original luster is brilliant, intense, and perfectly uniform over 100% of the surface, with a superb "cartwheel" effect.
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Surface: Contact marks are absent to the naked eye. At most, a tiny minor mark may be found with a 10x magnifying glass, but nothing significant. The fields are clear and without distraction.
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Strike: Perfectly centered and full strike with all design details exceptionally sharp.
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Visual Appeal: An MS-64 Choice + graded coin represents the pinnacle of what can be found for a circulating coin of this type. It offers a quality worthy of the greatest collections.
