Description

An epic bond: Canada?s national horse comes to life on this gold and black rhodium plated tribute

Strong and steady, Canada?s national horse is the embodiment of our collective spirit. The magnificent Canadian horse is brought to life on this gold- and black rhodium-plated coin. Its design reflects on the breed?s near-extinction status; more importantly, it celebrates the deep connection we share with all our equine friends.

The special bond that exists between humans and horses has transformed the world and shaped our history. Today, equine-based therapy is helping many Canadians find balance in their lives. They are renewing an age-old partnership that is built on intuition: the horse responds to our emotions and we respond to the horse?s movement ? two opposite yet complementary forces that have moved forward as one.

KEY FEATURES:

  • The magnificent Canadian horse is brought to life on a stunning gold- and black rhodium-plated coin. This heritage breed has twice faced extinction but is mounting a comeback, thanks to the efforts of passionate breeders and enthusiasts.
  • Dynamic design fills the reverse. Like a yin yang symbol, black rhodium and gold plating divide the design into two opposing but complementary portions. Each part flows into the other to represent dynamic movement, balance and harmony. It is a beautiful statement about a historic bond that still supports our wellbeing.
  • In scarce supply: A low mintage (3,500) means you?ll be one of the few who own this precious plated piece.

SPECIAL FEATURES:

  • A Canadian celebration: Any horse enthusiast will appreciate the theme and the design. This coin will have extra meaning for Canadians and fans of the Canadian horse, an official symbol of Canada since 2002.
  • Latest black rhodium coin. Building on the popularity of previous coins (including our Nocturnal by Nature series) this is the latest (5th)? Canadian coin to feature black rhodium plating. The matte gunmetal finish adds a dramatic contrast, especially next to the rich gold plating ? a powerful statement on the Canadian horse?s near-extinction and comeback.
  • Three different alloys: Beneath the gold and black rhodium plating, this coin has a 99.99% pure silver core.

DID YOU KNOW?

Horses are helping Canadians heal. Horses can attune themselves to our emotions and reflect our behaviours, and that can open the door to healing. Equine-based therapy (hippotherapy, therapeutic riding, equine-facilitated wellness) aims to improve the wellbeing of many Canadians diagnosed with physical or mental health issues. Therapy horses can aid with physical rehabilitation exercises; they can also help reduce anxiety and boost confidence through positive interactions.

The Canadian horse is a connection to our past. The tough ?little iron horse? is descended from stock originally sent to New France in 1665. It is uniquely adapted to the Canadian climate ? in fact, it has long been prized for its hardiness and calm nature. This domestic breed has twice faced extinction: in the late 1800s (due to exporting and breeding practices) and more recently in the 1960s and ?70s. At one time, less than 400 remained. Today, the breed is still ?at risk? but thanks to the efforts of Canadian horse breeders, the herd has mounted a steady comeback.

DESIGN

Inspired by the yin yang symbol, the circular reverse design by Claude Thivierge features two side profiles of the Canadian horse (Equus ferus caballus) ? one plated with gold, the other with black rhodium. The two opposites interact to form a single dynamic image that celebrates the human-horse relationship and reflects on the heritage breed?s near extinction status. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.