The intersection of art and numismatics has given rise to some of the world’s most extraordinary collectibles. Recently, the sale of The Dance Screen (The Scream Too) gold coin set a new benchmark, captivating collectors and art enthusiasts alike. This 10-kilogram gold coin, a stunning collaboration between the Royal Canadian Mint and Haida artist Chief 7IDANsuu (James Hart), fetched $1.56 million at auction, making it the most expensive coin ever sold in Canada. Here, we delve into the details of this record-breaking masterpiece.
A Golden Marvel of Craftsmanship
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Produced by the Royal Canadian Mint, The Dance Screen (The Scream Too) is an unparalleled creation that highlights the synergy of fine art and superior minting techniques. Crafted from 99.99% pure gold, the coin weighs an impressive 10 kilograms, embodying both material and artistic value.
Key Features of the Coin
- Title: The Dance Screen (The Scream Too)
- Gold Purity: 99.99%
- Weight: 10 kilograms
- Design Artist: Chief 7IDANsuu (James Hart)
- Special Inlays: Six responsibly sourced abalone shell pieces
- Auction Price: $1,561,250
- Auction House: Heffel Fine Art Auction House
The coin’s intricate design and impressive size make it a pinnacle of artistic and numismatic achievement. It surpassed the previous Canadian record held by The Ultimate, a platinum coin, solidifying its place in history.
Honoring Haida Culture Through Art
The collaboration with Chief 7IDANsuu highlights the Royal Canadian Mint’s dedication to celebrating cultural heritage through its coins. The reverse design of the coin features key elements of Haida mythology and storytelling, rendered with exquisite detail.
Symbolic Imagery on the Reverse
The coin’s reverse side is a visual narrative of Haida culture, showcasing:
- Shaman: Representing spiritual wisdom and the connection to the supernatural.
- Animal Figures: Beaver, Raven, Eagle, Frog, and Orca, each integral to Haida myths and the ecosystem.
- Mother Bear with Cubs: A symbol of community and nurturing strength.
- Salmon Motifs: Encircling the design, symbolizing life and sustenance.
The incorporation of six abalone shell inlays along the edge adds a unique visual dimension, inspired by traditional Haida copper shields that signify wealth and prosperity.
The Obverse Design
The obverse features the effigy of King Charles III, designed by Canadian artist Steven Rosati. The engraving includes artistic sketch lines that echo the style of Chief 7IDANsuu’s original carving, tying the two sides of the coin into a cohesive artistic statement.
Breaking Records at Auction
The auction of The Dance Screen gold coin was a milestone event for Canadian numismatics. Conducted by Heffel Fine Art Auction House, the coin attracted significant attention from collectors and art aficionados. The final bid of $1.56 million not only set a new record for Canadian coin sales but also underscored the global appeal of culturally significant numismatic pieces.
Marie Lemay, CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint, expressed her pride in the achievement: “We are thrilled by the collector interest in this unique coin and delighted that the skill of the Royal Canadian Mint and the talent of Chief 7IDANsuu have been recognized by the buyer of this rare and beautiful masterpiece.”
A Testament to Cultural Collaboration
Beyond its material and monetary value, The Dance Screen (The Scream Too) coin is a celebration of cultural storytelling and artistic excellence. It stands as a tangible representation of Haida traditions, bringing their rich history to an international audience.
What Makes This Coin Unique?
- Artistic Value: The intricate Haida designs are deeply symbolic and visually striking.
- Cultural Significance: The coin honors Indigenous traditions, emphasizing the importance of preservation and respect.
- Record-Breaking Sale: Its $1.56 million auction price highlights its rarity and desirability.
Inspiring Future Collaborations
The sale of The Dance Screen gold coin has set a high standard for artistic and numismatic collaborations. It exemplifies how coins can transcend their role as currency to become symbols of heritage and innovation. As collectors and art lovers continue to seek pieces that tell compelling stories, such collaborations will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of numismatics.
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THIS IS ONLY A BLOG POST FOR INFORMATION – WE DO NOT BUY, SELL, OR APPRAISE THESE ITEMS