2012 Canada: 25 Cents Isaac Brock (War of 1812) - Standard Uncolored Version
BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) Quality — Grade: MS-64 CHOICE +
Coin Description
This commemorative 25-cent coin was issued in 2012 by the Royal Canadian Mint to mark the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 and pay tribute to Major-General Sir Isaac Brock, a Canadian military hero. This war was a defining moment in Canadian history, seeing British soldiers, French and English Canadian militias, and First Nations and Métis allies unite to defend the borders. It is thanks to Brock's bravery and initiative that Canada was able to become a transcontinental nation.
The standard uncolored version of this coin allows for full appreciation of the engraving work and historical details of the design, with a particularly sought-after aesthetic feature: the frosted finish of Brock's portrait which contrasts with the brighter fields, creating a high-quality cameo effect.
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 keeping with coins from that era, the obverse is adorned with the maple leaf 🍁 at the bottom, a distinctive mark used since 2007. The legend "CANADA ELIZABETH II D • G • REGINA 2012" surrounds the royal bust. For an MS-64 Choice + grade, the original mint luster is vibrant, intense, and perfectly uniform across the entire surface. Contact marks are virtually absent to the naked eye; only microscopic imperfections may be detected under magnification, and nothing distracts the eye.
The Reverse (Sir Isaac Brock with frosted finish)
The reverse, designed by artist Bonnie Ross, depicts a bust of Major-General Sir Isaac Brock in military uniform, with a stylized maple leaf to the left. The artist drew inspiration from various representations of Brock to create a custom design. The distinctive feature of this uncolored version is the frosted finish applied to Brock's portrait, which stands out sharply against the finely detailed and brighter field, producing a superb cameo effect highly prized by collectors.
In MS-64 Choice +, all details of Brock's portrait (facial features, uniform, medals) are perfectly sharp, with a full strike. The frosted/brilliant contrast is optimally preserved, offering exceptional visual impact. The "Choice +" quality indicates a coin that surpasses the average MS-64 due to its harmonious balance and superior presentation.
Technical Specifications