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

A Historic Auction: The 10 kg Pure Gold Coin

In an exciting event that captured the attention of collectors and art enthusiasts alike, the Royal Canadian Mint announced the successful auction of its one-of-a-kind 10 kg pure gold coin titled "The Dance Screen (The Scream Too)". This stunning piece achieved a remarkable auction price of CAD 1,561,250 at the live Heffel Fine Art Auction House, showcasing the increasing value and interest in unique numismatic pieces.

The Coin’s Inception

The 2024 coin, crafted from 99.99% pure gold, pays homage to the artistry of Chief 7IDANsuu, also known as James Hart, a celebrated Haida master carver. The auction was held on November 20, 2024, where buyers had the opportunity to bid on this exceptional work, which surpassed the previous record held by the Royal Canadian Mint for a coin auctioned in Canada.

Marie Lemay, President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint, expressed her enthusiasm about the sale, saying, “We are thrilled by the collectors' interest in this unique coin. It highlights both the skill of the Royal Canadian Mint and the talent of Chief 7IDANsuu, who has created this rare and beautiful masterpiece.”

What Makes the Coin Unique?

The design of "The Dance Screen" showcases intricate carvings inspired by the original red cedar wood screen carved by Chief 7IDANsuu. Its reverse side features sacred Haida figures including a shaman, a beaver, a raven, an eagle, a frog, an orca, and a bear with her cubs. These figures are intricately tied to the life of salmon, prominently displayed along the coin’s edge. The coin’s rim is adorned with six shimmering mother-of-pearl shells, sourced from environmentally responsible sources, reflecting aquatic colors as they catch the light, reminiscent of traditional Haida copper shields symbolizing prosperity.

On the obverse side, the coin proudly features an image of His Majesty King Charles III, created by Canadian artist Steven Rosati, which is surrounded by delicate engravings inspired by the original carvings.

A Celebration of Canadian Heritage

This auction not only marks a milestone in the world of numismatics but also celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Haida Nation. David Heffel, President of Heffel Fine Art Auction House, referred to the coin as “a lasting icon of Canadian art” that embodies the rich traditions and cultural storytelling of the Haida people. He added that it was an immense privilege to auction this significant artwork and that its legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

The Royal Canadian Mint, recognized globally for its excellence in coin production, not only focuses on creating award-winning collectibles but also operates as a Good Delivery Refiner at the London and COMEX metal exchanges, offering top-notch gold and silver refining services.

In addition to its artistry, the Mint is committed to environmental sustainability and social responsibility, integrating these values into all facets of its operations.

Looking Ahead

In conclusion, the auction of "The Dance Screen (The Scream Too)" underscores the growing value placed on unique artistic expressions within numismatics. This event highlights the collectors' passion and the significance of cultural representation in art. For anyone interested in exploring more about Canadian coins and the Royal Canadian Mint’s offerings, further information can be found at their official website, www.mint.ca. Follow them on platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram to stay updated on their latest releases and initiatives.