Rare Canadian Coin Fetches Over $1.5M: Rare coins have long been cherished by collectors for their exceptional artistry and historical value. A recent event in the numismatic world has taken this appreciation to new heights. The Dance Screen (The Scream Too), a breathtaking 10-kilogram gold coin, shattered records when it was sold for an extraordinary $1.56 million at a live auction hosted by Heffel Fine Art Auction House on November 20, 2024.
A Historic Sale and Record-Breaking Auction Price
Produced by the Royal Canadian Mint, this coin boasts an impressive 99.99% purity and captivated audiences with its exceptional design. It became a milestone in Canadian numismatics, surpassing the previous record set by The Ultimate, a one-kilogram platinum coin. The Dance Screen sold for an astonishing $1,561,250, cementing its place as the highest-priced coin ever auctioned in Canada.
The Creative Genius Behind the Coin: A Haida Master Carver
Designed by Chief 7IDANsuu, also known as James Hart, a renowned Haida master carver, the coin reflects the depth and beauty of Indigenous art. The collaboration between the Royal Canadian Mint and Chief 7IDANsuu symbolizes a unique blending of fine artistry and cultural heritage. Hart’s work honors the rich traditions of the Haida Nation, making this coin not only a valuable numismatic piece but also a tribute to Canada’s Indigenous heritage.
Key Features of the Dance Screen Coin
- Title: The Dance Screen (The Scream Too)
- Gold Purity: 99.99%
- Weight: 10 kilograms
- Design Artist: Chief 7IDANsuu (James Hart)
- Auction Price: $1,561,250
- Auction House: Heffel Fine Art Auction House
A Unique Artistic and Cultural Legacy
This stunning gold coin features intricate Haida designs that showcase several symbolic figures from Haida mythology. The reverse side brings these figures to life, with animals such as the Beaver, Raven, Eagle, Frog, and Orca symbolizing key aspects of Haida stories and traditions. The Mother Bear with Cubs represents the strength of family and community, while the Salmon, elegantly rendered along the coin’s edge, symbolizes the cyclical nature of life. The addition of six abalone shell inlays evokes the traditional Haida copper shields, symbols of wealth and power.
On the obverse side, the effigy of King Charles III, crafted by Canadian artist Steven Rosati, serves as a modern contrast to the traditional elements, creating a beautiful fusion of history and artistry.
A Milestone in Canadian Numismatics
The coin was sold to an anonymous bidder, surpassing the previous record held by The Ultimate, a platinum coin, in a remarkable display of its value. Marie Lemay, President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint, expressed her pride, noting the immense interest generated by this rare coin. She highlighted how it underscores both the Mint’s craftsmanship and Chief 7IDANsuu’s extraordinary artistry.
Why the Dance Screen Coin Stands Out
While the Royal Canadian Mint is known for producing high-quality coins, the Dance Screen stands apart due to its blend of cultural significance and precious material value. The coin’s creation is a reflection of both Haida heritage and numismatic artistry, making it an extraordinary collectible. Its symbolism, the craftsmanship of the Haida design, and its immense gold value make this coin highly coveted by collectors.
The Blend of Art, History, and Craftsmanship
The Dance Screen coin is not merely a piece of currency, but a masterpiece that speaks to the heart of Canada’s cultural richness. With its symbolic ties to Haida culture, the Royal Canadian Mint’s mastery in coin production, and the record-setting auction price, the coin is an enduring symbol of fine artistry and the preservation of Canada’s Indigenous heritage. This sale marks a new chapter in both the history of numismatics and the recognition of Indigenous cultural contributions to Canadian art.
