2006 $3 Square Sterling Silver Coin – The Beaver

A BEAVER UNLIKE ANY OTHER!

It’s a historic first for the Royal Canadian Mint!  This unique square coin was inspired by the trade tokens that came into use during the fur trade, the adventurous industry that drove much of Canada’s development during the 17^th and 18^th centuries.

When trappers brought their furs to the trading posts, something was needed to represent the value of the pelts.  At first, everything from porcupine quills, ivory discs and bits of wood of bone were used – anything that the trapper and merchant agreed upon.

As the industry became more sophisticated, trade tokens began to appear.  As the two parties went through the furs, tokens would be placed on the counter.  Once done, the trapper would use them to purchase goods from the store.  Some trade tokens were square like this coin.  Others featured the prize of the fur trade that also reigns as one of Canada’s earliest forms of currently – the Beaver!

Designed by Royal Canadian Mint Engraver Cosme Saffioti, the coin depicts an industrious beaver with head raised, alert and ready for all challenges.

The coin is encapsulated and presented in a Royal Canadian Mint-branded maroon display case with an insert, which houses the coin and is protected by a black beauty box.

Denomination - Canadian Three dollars

Composition - Silver (92.50% silver) and is plated in 24 Karat gold.

Weight - 11.72g

Diameter - 27mm

Worldwide Mintage Limit - 20,000

Mint - Royal Canadian Mint