2013 1 oz Canadian Wood Bison Silver Coin

In the vast expanse of Canada’s boreal forests, a majestic creature roams, embodying strength, resilience, and the untamed spirit of the North. The wood bison, once teetering on the brink of extinction, has become a symbol of conservation success and a testament to nature’s enduring power. It is this magnificent beast that graces the 2013 1 oz Canadian Wood Bison Silver Coin, the final installment in the Royal Canadian Mint’s acclaimed Wildlife Series.

The story of the wood bison is one of near-tragedy and triumphant recovery. In the early 1800s, these gentle giants numbered around 168,000, their herds dominating the northern landscapes. However, by the late 19th century, overhunting and habitat loss had reduced their population to mere hundreds. The world stood to lose not just an animal, but a vital piece of North American ecology and Indigenous culture.

Recognizing the urgency, conservationists launched ambitious recovery programs in the 1970s. Their efforts bore fruit, and by 2013 – the year this coin was minted – wood bison numbers had rebounded to nearly 10,000. This remarkable turnaround showcases the power of dedicated conservation efforts and the resilience of nature when given a chance to heal.

The wood bison’s significance extends beyond its ecological role. For many Indigenous peoples of Canada, these animals have been integral to their way of life for millennia, providing food, clothing, and featuring prominently in spiritual practices. The bison’s resurgence thus represents not just an environmental victory, but a cultural renaissance, allowing traditional practices and knowledge to be preserved and passed on to future generations.

As the final piece in the Wildlife Series, this coin holds special significance for collectors and investors alike. It not only captures a moment in Canadian natural history but also marks the culmination of a numismatic journey that has celebrated Canada’s diverse and awe-inspiring wildlife. Each coin in this series has been a window into Canada’s wilderness, and the Wood Bison stands as a fitting finale, embodying the series’ themes of natural beauty, conservation, and national pride.

In choosing to immortalize the wood bison on this coin, the Royal Canadian Mint has created more than just a piece of currency or a collectible. They have minted a piece of Canadian heritage, a tangible reminder of the delicate balance between human progress and natural preservation, and a celebration of one of North America’s most iconic creatures.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2013 Canadian Wood Bison Silver Coin features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Susanna Blunt. This portrait, introduced in 2003, shows the Queen in her golden years, wearing her trademark pearl necklace and earrings. The inscriptions “ELIZABETH II,” “5 DOLLARS,” and the year “2013” encircle the portrait, affirming the coin’s legal tender status and royal approval.

The reverse side, however, is where the true artistry of this coin shines. Designed by Canadian artist Emily S. Damstra, it depicts a powerful wood bison in motion, its massive form captured mid-gallop through a snowy landscape. The detail is exquisite – from the bison’s shaggy winter coat and curved horns to the snow kicked up by its hooves. In the background, a grove of evergreen trees hints at the bison’s boreal forest habitat. The inscriptions “CANADA,” “9999,” “FINE SILVER 1 OZ ARGENT PUR” confirm the coin’s origin and purity, while the artist’s initials “ED” subtly acknowledge the designer.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.9999
• Weight: 1 oz
• Grade: BU – Brilliant Uncirculated
• Manufacturer: Royal Canadian Mint
• IRA Eligible: Yes
• Obverse: Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II
• Reverse: Wood bison galloping through snowy landscape

Investment Appeal

The 2013 1 oz Canadian Wood Bison Silver Coin presents a compelling case for both collectors and investors. Its status as the final coin in the highly sought-after Wildlife Series instantly elevates its collectible value. The limited mintage of these coins, coupled with their popularity among numismatists, suggests potential for appreciation over time.

For investors, the coin’s 99.99% pure silver content offers a tangible store of value, providing a hedge against economic uncertainties. The Royal Canadian Mint’s reputation for producing high-quality bullion adds to the coin’s liquidity and global recognition. Moreover, its IRA eligibility makes it an attractive option for those looking to diversify their retirement portfolios with precious metals.

Beyond its material value, this coin represents a piece of Canadian natural and cultural heritage. As awareness of conservation issues grows, items that celebrate and support wildlife preservation may see increased demand. By acquiring this coin, investors and collectors not only gain a beautiful piece of art but also participate in the ongoing narrative of wildlife conservation and cultural preservation.