This
2017 $20 proof fine silver coin is the first of a three coin series that
features some of the marvels that live in Canadian waters. This seahorse coin is enhanced with the use
of colour,
engraving and with a new type of Mosaic murrini sculpted borosilicate glass
element. The sea has its secrets, for
beneath the ocean waves lies a hidden realm filled with enchantment and wonders
of all shapes and sizes. This colourful underwater paradise is home to
awe-inspiring creatures such as the diminutive seahorse. Mintage is limited to just 7,500 coins. As a pure silver coin struck by the Royal
Canadian Mint, this item is HST/GST exempt.
Mosaic Murrini
The seahorse-shaped glass element is the result
of a laborious handcrafted process in which different colours of glass rods
(stringers) are layered and fused together to form a colourful mosaic that
reveals the final image when sliced. The handcrafted nature of both the murrini
element and its glass enclosure make each coin unique. Despite its delicate
appearance, the glass embellishment is sculpted from borosilicate glass, which
is highly resilient yet lightweight.
Design
The reverse design by Canadian artist Maurice Gervais offers
a glimpse of the hidden underwater world off Canada’s Atlantic coast, thanks to
its depiction of a shallow sea grass habitat. The
application of vivid coloured enamel over the detailed engraving recreates the
textured rocks, seashells and swaying green grasses that line the sandy ocean
floor. To the right, a handcrafted glass embellishment contains a striking
seahorse-shaped mosaic murrini element. The mosaic-based approach to this glass
art technique lends itself well to recreating the seahorse’s speckled
colouring, while other features such as its bony armour, pointed snout and
curled tail are equally captured in extraordinary detail.