Dynamic design
Like 2020’s The Canadian Horse and 2021’s The Grey Wolf, this coin’s reverse design is inspired by the yin yang symbol. No matter which way you view the design, you’ll always get a full glimpse of an adorable sea otter floating on its back.
Black and gold rhodium
Yellow gold and black rhodium plating divide this coin’s design into two opposing but complementary elements. It is an inspiring representation of an industrious yet playful Canadian species, one that was hunted to extinction but is now mounting a comeback after its reintroduction to the coast of British Columbia.
Matte proof finish
Just like previous Black and Gold coins, the black rhodium-plated portion of the reverse design features a matte gunmetal finish that strikes a dramatic contrast next to the yellow gold. It’s our way of playing with light and shadows to bring out details that are otherwise unseen in the other half of the design (and vice versa).
The circular reverse design by wildlife artist Claude Thivierge features a contrasting “yin and yang” portrait of the sea otter (Enhydra lutris). Two adult sea otters are positioned in a way that represents opposite but complementary concepts, such as work and rest/play. Yellow gold and black rhodium plating clearly divide the design into two halves in order to highlight the importance of achieving balance in life, but also in nature, where the sea otter’s reintroduction to Canada’s Pacific coast has had a big impact on the marine ecosystem. The obverse features the gold-plated effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.
