#Canada #Royal Canadian Mint #Heffel Auction #The Dance Screen #Ottawa

A Record-Breaking Auction for a Unique Coin

The Royal Canadian Mint has once again made headlines with a remarkable auction that showcased the true artistry and value of collectible coins. On November 20, 2024, during a live auction hosted by Heffel Fine Art, the unique 2024 10 kg pure gold coin, titled The Dance Screen (The Scream Too), fetched a stunning 1,561,250 CAD, breaking previous records for coins sold at auction in Canada.

A Unique Tribute to Indigenous Art

Designed by renowned Haida artist Chief 7IDANsuu (James Hart), this exquisite coin represents more than just a monetary value. It is a tribute to the rich cultural heritage of the Haida Nation and serves as a striking reminder of the artistic legacy embedded in Canadian history. The coin features intricate carvings reminiscent of the original Dance Screen, a traditional Haida art form that symbolizes the stories and values of the Haida people.

Marie Lemay, President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint, expressed excitement at the overwhelming interest from collectors in this one-of-a-kind item. She stated, “We are thrilled about the interest in this unique coin and delighted that the artistry of the Royal Canadian Mint and the talent of Chief 7IDANsuu have been recognized.”

The Auction Success

Heffel Fine Art Auction House, which has been facilitating sales of valuable artworks since 1978, hosted this historic event. David Heffel, President of Heffel Fine Art, reflected on the significance of the coin. He mentioned, “It has been an extraordinary privilege to auction the 10 kg pure gold coin. The deeply meaningful artwork by Chief James Hart stands as a lasting icon of Canadian artistry.”

This sale surpassed the previous record held by The Ultimate, a platinum coin weighing one kilogram, also produced by the Royal Canadian Mint. Such a leap in auction prices not only highlights the growing appreciation for collectible coins but also emphasizes the importance of Indigenous art in Canada’s cultural landscape.

Detailed Representation

The coin itself is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, imbued with cultural significance. Modeled from 10 kg of 99.99% pure Canadian gold, it showcases carved figures including a shaman, a beaver, a raven, an eagle, a frog, an orca, and a mother bear with her cubs. These elements are intricately linked to the ecological balance hinging on salmon, highlighted throughout the coin’s edge as human and animal figures. Complementing this artistry are six responsibly sourced abalone shell pieces embedded around the coin’s circumference, reflecting shimmering aquatic tones reminiscent of traditional Haida copper shields, symbols of wealth in their culture.

On the obverse of this impressive item, the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III is featured, skillfully crafted by Canadian artist Steven Rosati. The engraving around his likeness subtly reflects the original carving designs of Chief 7IDANsuu.

About the Royal Canadian Mint

The Royal Canadian Mint serves as a Crown corporation responsible for the minting and distribution of Canada’s coin currency. It stands as one of the largest and most versatile mints globally, recognized for its collectible coins and market-leading bullion products. It emphasizes environmental stewardship and inclusivity within its workplace while fostering community impact through responsible practices. To learn more about their offerings, visit www.mint.ca and follow them on social media platforms.

Heffel Fine Art Auction House

Heffel has connected passionate collectors around the world with remarkable artworks for decades, with nearly one billion dollars in total sales, a testament to their expertise in fine arts. They boast a highly skilled team and provide superior customer service to both sellers and buyers internationally. For further details, contact Heffel Fine Art directly or visit their website for upcoming auction information.

With this historic auction, the Royal Canadian Mint not only sets a benchmark in the world of coin collecting but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of Canada’s indigenous culture and artistry.