2022 Canada: 25 Cents Caribou - First Strikes
BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) Quality — Grade: MS-65 GEM
Coin Description
This 2022 25-cent coin belongs to the long line of caribou 25-cent coins, an iconic design introduced in 1937 by artist Emanuel Hahn. What makes this particular example especially special is its status as a "First Strike": it is one of the very first 25-cent coins struck in 2022 at the Royal Canadian Mint's Winnipeg facility.
The Mint produced a limited set of only 5,000 special "First Strikes" rolls for all five denominations (5¢, 10¢, 25¢, $1, $2). Each roll is sealed with a holographic label certifying that the coins it contains are among the first struck that year. The offered example, graded MS-65 GEM, boasts exceptional 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. It shows the Queen at 77 years old, uncrowned, in a streamlined and contemporary style. The legend "ELIZABETH II D • G • REGINA" surrounds the royal bust, with the date "2022".
For an MS-65 GEM grade, the original mint luster is dazzling, of remarkable intensity and perfectly uniform across the entire surface. Contact marks are completely absent to the naked eye, and even under 10x magnification, only tiny microscopic imperfections may be detected. The fields are exceptionally clear.
The Reverse (Caribou)
The reverse features the classic caribou design, created by Emanuel Hahn and used since 1937. The animal's head, an iconic symbol of Canadian coinage, is surrounded by the inscription "CANADA", the value "25 CENTS" and the year "2022". The composition is copper-plated steel (94% steel, 3.8% copper, 2.2% nickel), making the coin magnetic.
In MS-65 GEM, all details of the antlers, fur, and eye are stunningly sharp, with full strike. The "GEM" quality indicates a coin of exceptional beauty that clearly stands out from lower grades by its perfect balance and impeccable presentation.
Technical Specifications
Condition: MS-65 GEM
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Luster: The original mint luster is dazzling, of remarkable intensity and perfectly uniform across 100% of the surface.
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Surface: Contact marks are completely absent to the naked eye. The fields are impeccably clear, without any visual distractions.
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Strike: Perfectly centered and full strike with all design details exceptionally sharp.
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Visual Appeal: An MS-65 GEM grade coin represents the ultimate for a standard circulation coin. The "First Strikes" designation adds additional collectible value.
