2011 Canada: 25 Cents Wood Bison (Legendary Nature) - Color Version
Quality BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) — Grade: MS-62
Coin Description
This commemorative 25-cent coin was issued in 2011 by the Royal Canadian Mint as part of the "Legendary Nature in Canada" series. This series highlights Canada's iconic wildlife, and the wood bison holds a prominent place. As North America's largest land mammal, the wood bison is a symbol of strength and resilience, having been narrowly saved from extinction in the early 20th century. The color version of this coin is particularly sought after, as the Mint issued a special uncirculated set in 2011 that included the colored versions of three coins from the series. The offered specimen, graded MS-62, is in very good condition with its color well-preserved.
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 of that 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 "2011". For an MS-62 grade, the strike luster is present, covering most of the surface, but may be slightly interrupted in some areas, with a few minor contact marks visible to the naked eye on the high points of the relief.
The Reverse (Wood Bison)
The reverse, designed by artist Claude Thivierge, depicts a wood bison in its natural habitat. The animal is illustrated with strength and realism, capturing its power and presence. The particularity of this version lies in the application of color (probably a green/brown enamel) which highlights the bison or its environment, depending on the specific design. The color was applied by a patented process by the Royal Canadian Mint, ensuring full adhesion to the metal. The inscriptions "CANADA", "25 CENTS" and the year "2011" complete the reverse. For an MS-62 grade, the color is well-preserved, without significant flaking, and the details of the bison are sharp.
Technical Specifications
Condition: MS-62 (Brilliant Uncirculated / Mint State-62)
-
Luster: Original luster is present, covering most of the surface, but may be slightly interrupted or less intense in the most exposed areas.
-
Surface: Presence of a few contact marks (dings, fine scratches) visible to the naked eye or under magnification, mainly on the fields and high points. The coin has not circulated but has undergone very slight handling.
-
Color Condition: The applied color is well-preserved, without significant flaking. It may show very slight imperfections, normal for this type of process.
-
Strike: The strike is complete and all design details (bison, inscriptions) are clearly visible.
-
Visual Appeal: An MS-62 grade coin represents an excellent compromise for the collector who wishes to acquire this colored commemorative coin at an accessible price while benefiting from an uncirculated condition.
