2011 Canadian Maple Leaf 1 oz Silver Bullion Coin
Coin/Bullion · Royal Canadian Mint (RCM). Founded in 1908, the RCM is a Crown corporation of Canada and is world-renowned for producing high-purity precious metal products with industry-leading security features.
Pattern: Canadian Silver Maple Leaf Series, introduced in 1988. It is one of the world's most recognized and liquid silver bullion programs.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Royal Canadian Mint (RCM). Founded in 1908, the RCM is a Crown corporation of Canada and is world-renowned for producing high-purity precious metal products with industry-leading security features.
Material
Sterling composition is exceeded here; this is .9999 Fine Silver (Four Nines Fine). Contains 1 troy ounce of pure silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 38 mm; Thickness: 3.29 mm; Weight: 31.103 grams (1 troy ounce). Face value: 5 Canadian Dollars.
Description
A quintessential example of sovereign silver bullion, this 2011 Canadian Maple Leaf combines legal tender status with investment-grade purity. The obverse showcases the mature portrait of Queen Elizabeth II without a crown, designed by Susanna Blunt. The coin's high-shine fields and crisp relief make it a favorite for both stackers and numismatists.
Key Features
Four nines (.9999) purity, which is higher than the .999 standard used by the US Mint; Susanna Blunt effigy; legal tender status; and the 5 Dollar denomination.
Material & Composition
Sterling composition is exceeded here; this is .9999 Fine Silver (Four Nines Fine). Contains 1 troy ounce of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Bullion finish with a proof-like luster. The obverse features the Susanna Blunt effigy of Queen Elizabeth II. The reverse (not shown but implied) features the iconic Maple Leaf. The fields are typically struck with a radial line or satin-finish background.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse: 'ELIZABETH II', '5 DOLLARS', '2011'. Reverse (standard for this issue): 'CANADA', '9999', 'FINE SILVER 1 OZ ARGENT PUR'. Includes the artist's initials 'SB' for Susanna Blunt on the shoulder truncation.
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck minting process using high-pressure hydraulic presses. Each planchet is polished before striking to ensure a high-quality bullion finish.
Functional Features
Legal tender in Canada; reeded edge to prevent clipping and provide grip; micro-engraved security features (on later years, though 2011 relies on high-purity metal analysis).
Handle & Grip Details
Reeded (milled) edge for tactile handling and to discourage tampering or shaving of the metal.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck to exacting tolerances. The high-relief detail in the hair of the effigy and the sharp lettering are hallmarks of the Royal Canadian Mint’s superior die-making technology.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic typography of the Royal Canadian Mint; correct 'SB' initials; specific milk spotting patterns which, ironically, often confirm the RCM silver chemistry of that period; reeded edge consistency.
Origin & Manufacturing
Ottawa or Winnipeg, Canada. Produced by the Royal Canadian Mint, a facility known for the highest purity standards in the world (99.99%).
Era & Period
Modern Era / 21st Century Bullion. Reflects the contemporary standards of government-issued investment-grade precious metals.
Age Estimate
Dated 2011. Produced during the peak of the post-2008 silver bull market.
Cultural Significance
Represents Canada's status as a global leader in mining and precious metal refining. It serves as a physical store of wealth and a symbol of the Canadian monarchy.
Condition Notes
The image shows 'milk spots' (white cloudy patches) common on Canadian Silver Maples from this era. Surface has light bag marks and contact scratches. Grade: Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) but with significant milk spotting, common for 2011 issues.
Value Estimate
Spot price of silver plus a premium (usually $3-$7 USD). 2011 is a common date, but high-purity silver remains a stable investment.
Care & Maintenance
Store in PVC-free plastic capsules or tubes to prevent further oxidation. Do not clean or polish with abrasives as it destroys numismatic value; use a soft microfiber cloth only if absolutely necessary.
Similar Pieces
American Silver Eagle (99.9% pure, different dimensions), Austrian Philharmonic (99.9% pure, smooth edge), Australian Kookaburra (99.99% pure, encapsulated).
Interesting Facts
The Canadian Silver Maple Leaf was the first silver bullion coin to achieve 99.99% purity. In 2011, silver prices reached nearly $50/oz, making this a very high-demand year for production.