2021 Canadian 10-Cent 100th Anniversary of the Bluenose Silver Proof Coin
Coin/Bullion · Royal Canadian Mint (RCM). Founded in 1908, the RCM is one of the world's most innovative mints, renowned for its high-purity silver products and advanced coloring techniques.
Pattern: 100th Anniversary of the Bluenose Sailing Schooner Commemorative Series
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Royal Canadian Mint (RCM). Founded in 1908, the RCM is one of the world's most innovative mints, renowned for its high-purity silver products and advanced coloring techniques.
Material
0.9999 Fine Silver (Pure Silver). While circulating dimes are nickel-plated steel, this specific collector's version is struck in four-nines pure silver with selective color application on the water.
Dimensions
Diameter: 18.05 mm; Weight: Approximately 2.45 grams of pure silver. This matches the standard size of a Canadian dime but utilizes a heavier, denser metal than the base metal circulating version.
Description
This exquisite pure silver coin celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Bluenose, Canada’s most famous sailing vessel. The reverse features a high-relief depiction of the schooner by ocean artist Yves Bérubé, enhanced by a striking application of blue color representing the sea. As a limited-edition silver proof, it serves as both a tribute to Canadian maritime history and a high-purity silver asset for collectors.
Key Features
Dual dates '1921-2021', selective blue coloring on the waves, 'YB' artist mark, and the mirror-like proof background characteristic of RCM collector editions.
Material & Composition
0.9999 Fine Silver (Pure Silver). While circulating dimes are nickel-plated steel, this specific collector's version is struck in four-nines pure silver with selective color application on the water.
Finish & Decoration
Proof Finish with selective color. The coin features a frosted cameo relief against a mirror-like background. The bottom third features blue enamel/selective coloring to represent the Atlantic Ocean. The design shows the famous schooner Bluenose under full sail.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Issuer: 'CANADA'; Denomination: '10 CENTS'; Dual Dates: '1921-2021'; Artist Initials: 'YB' (Yves Bérubé) visible on the lower left of the schooner. The purity is not stamped on the face but is certified by the Mint's packaging.
Construction Details
Die-struck, proof-standard production. This involves multiple strikes at high pressure using polished dies and planchets to create sharp detail and a high-contrast finish. It includes a reeded edge.
Functional Features
Legal tender in Canada (Face Value: 10 Cents), though its intrinsic and numismatic value far exceeds its face value. It features a security-serrated reeded edge.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Numismatic object meant for handling by the edges or with numismatic gloves only).
Craftsmanship Details
Superior proof strike showing exceptional detail in the rigging of the schooner. The selective coloring is precisely applied, staying perfectly within the design lines of the water, indicating high-end industrial Mint craftsmanship.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic RCM proof finish, consistent typography for the commemorative series, and high-quality color registration. Note: Circulating 2021 colorized dimes exist in steel; the silver version is identified by its proof luster and weight.
Origin & Manufacturing
Ottawa or Winnipeg, Canada. Produced by the Royal Canadian Mint, which adheres to the highest global standards for bullion and collector coin purity.
Era & Period
Modern Era / 21st Century Canadian Numismatics. Historically commemorative of the 1921 launch of the Bluenose in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia.
Age Estimate
Dated 2021. This coin was minted specifically to mark the centenary of the Bluenose's first launch.
Cultural Significance
The Bluenose is a primary symbol of Canadian identity and Nova Scotian pride. It represents the pinnacle of fishing schooner design and the country's historic connection to the Atlantic fisheries.
Condition Notes
Excellent to Proof. The surface appears bright with no visible 'milk spots' or heavy scratches. The coloring is intact and the strike is sharp.
Value Estimate
Approximately $25 - $45 CAD depending on presence of original Mint Certificate of Authenticity (COA) and box. Silver spot price provides the floor value, but the numismatic premium is the primary driver.
Care & Maintenance
Store in an airtight PVC-free plastic capsule. Do not polish; silver coins lose significant numismatic value if cleaned or wiped with cloths. Handle only by the edges to avoid transferring finger oils which cause oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Standard 2021 10-cent circulating colorized dime (Nickel-plated steel, no silver value); 1921-2021 Silver Bluenose Dollar (larger 1oz silver format); 1937-present standard Canadian dimes.
Interesting Facts
The Bluenose was known as the 'Queen of the North Atlantic' and remained undefeated in the International Fishermen's Trophy for 17 years. It has appeared on the Canadian dime since 1937.