For years, the great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias) has been cast as an object of fear when
in truth, it is a fascinating ancient species and one of the oldest life forms on Earth. This $30 coin
shines the spotlight on a legendary yet mysterious oceanic predator, whose northern range
stretches into Canadian waters off the Atlantic and Pacific coasts.
The reverse design by Canadian artist Emily Damstra captures the imposing stature of a great
white shark as it moves through Canadian waters. The viewpoint from beneath it emphasizes
the large size and the streamlined shape of this solitary predator, whose conical snout is in full
view. Its mouth is only slightly ajar, allowing a limited view of the famously serrated teeth that
provoke such widespread fear. Rendered in outstanding detail by Royal Canadian Mint
engravers, this highly detailed portrait includes the faint markings and scars along the
torpedo-shaped body, the gills on its side, as well as the shark’s dark eye. Adding to a sense of
depth and dynamic movement is the wide path cut by the shark as it catches up to a familiar
prey: a school of Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus). The reverse also features the
engraved word “CANADA”, the year “2018” and the face value “30 DOLLARS”. The obverse
features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.
Capture this famous ocean predator swimming
through an ocean filled with blue rhodium plating.
Diameter: 50 mm
Material: Silver
Fineness: 0.9999
Weight: 62.69 g
Bullion Weight: 2.012 Troy Ounces
Obverse: Queen Elizabeth II
Reverse: A Great White Shark in Blue Waters
Artist: Emily Damstra
Finish: Proof
Quantity Produced: 3500
Monarch: Queen Elizabeth II
Theme(s): Canadian,Royal Canadian Mint,Wildlife
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