The Royal Canadian Mint has, in recent years, produced a series of collector coins dedicated to birthstones, offering a unique intersection of numismatics and gemological appreciation. These coins, crafted from .9999 fine silver and embellished with Swarovski® crystals, represent a modern interpretation of the tradition of associating specific gemstones with each month of the year. This article details the history, production, and characteristics of these coins, as documented by the Royal Canadian Mint and related sales information.
History and Lore
The tradition of birthstones dates back centuries, with various cultures attributing specific meanings and powers to different gemstones based on their color and perceived properties. While the origins are complex and varied, the practice of associating a gemstone with each month gained prominence in the 19th and 20th centuries, becoming a popular gifting tradition. The Royal Canadian Mint’s birthstone series, initiated in 2012, taps into this enduring cultural practice.
The Mint’s introduction of these coins coincided with a period of commemorative releases, including coins marking the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II and the centennial of the sinking of the RMS Titanic. The birthstone coins were presented as a continuation of the Mint’s commitment to capturing “compelling symbols of our history, culture and values.” The series was initially launched with a fresh new look in 2012, building upon previous iterations and offering a collectible item for each month. The series was back by popular demand, indicating a strong collector interest.
Production and Design
The Canadian birthstone coins are struck from .9999 fine silver, representing a high level of purity. Each coin features a floral design created by artist Maurice Gervais, with a frosted finish that contrasts against a mirror-like background. This design element enhances the visual impact of the Swarovski® crystal embedded within each coin. The crystals are specifically chosen to replicate the color of the corresponding month’s birthstone.
The coins have a face value of $5 (CAD) and a diameter of 27 millimeters. They are produced as proof finish coins, indicating a high level of detail and quality in the striking process. The mintage for each coin is limited to 3,000 worldwide, adding to their collectibility. Complete sets of all twelve birthstone coins were also offered, limited to a mintage of only 200 sets. Individual coins retail for $64.95 CDN each, while the complete set is priced at $779.40 CDN.
Gemological Representation and Swarovski® Crystals
While the coins do not contain actual gemstones, the Swarovski® crystals serve as a representation of each month’s traditional birthstone. Swarovski crystals are known for their precision cut, brilliance, and color consistency, making them a suitable substitute for showcasing the aesthetic qualities of the gemstones they represent. The use of these crystals allows the Mint to offer a visually appealing and affordable collectible that embodies the spirit of the birthstone tradition.
The coins are described as being “embedded with a genuine, gem-toned Swarovski® crystal,” highlighting the intention to accurately reflect the color associated with each birthstone. The specific gemstones represented by each crystal are not detailed in the provided sources, but the series aims to capture the essence of the birthstone colors.
Market and Availability
The Royal Canadian Mint distributes its products through various channels, including its own boutiques in Ottawa, Winnipeg, and Vancouver, a global network of dealers and distributors, and participating Canada Post outlets. The coins are also available directly from the Mint via phone and online.
Sales information indicates a strong demand for these coins, with the 50-cent circulation coin roll being a “perennial sell-out product.” The limited mintage of the birthstone coins further contributes to their desirability among collectors. As of the provided data, a May birthstone coin was listed for sale on PicClick, with a mintage number of 0741/3000, indicating ongoing availability in the secondary market. The listing details the coin’s composition, weight (7.96g), and condition as 100% fine silver.
Royal Canadian Mint Overview
The Royal Canadian Mint is a Crown Corporation responsible for the production and distribution of Canada’s circulation coins. It is an ISO 9001-2008 certified company, recognized for its high quality coinage products and services on an international scale. The Mint’s commitment to innovation and craftsmanship is evident in the production of the birthstone coins, which combine traditional numismatic techniques with modern design elements and materials.
Care and Cleaning
Given the .9999 fine silver composition of these coins, careful handling and storage are essential to prevent tarnishing. The coins should be protected from exposure to air and moisture, ideally stored in the original packaging or in acid-free coin holders. Gentle cleaning with a soft, lint-free cloth may be necessary to remove fingerprints or dust, but abrasive cleaners should be avoided. The Swarovski® crystal should also be handled with care to prevent scratches or damage.
Summary of Gemological Data
The following table summarizes the key gemological data related to the coins:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Metal Composition | .9999 Fine Silver |
| Crystal Material | Swarovski® Crystal |
| Face Value | $5 (CAD) |
| Diameter | 27 mm |
| Finish | Proof |
| Mintage (Individual Coin) | 3,000 |
| Mintage (Complete Set) | 200 |
| Weight | 7.96 g |
Conclusion
The Royal Canadian Mint’s birthstone coins represent a unique and attractive collectible that blends the traditions of birthstone lore with the artistry of numismatic design. Crafted from high-purity silver and adorned with Swarovski® crystals, these coins offer a modern interpretation of a timeless cultural practice. Their limited mintage and high-quality production make them desirable items for collectors and gemstone enthusiasts alike, serving as a tangible representation of the enduring symbolism associated with each month’s birthstone.