1980 Canada Silver $1 Coin - "Arctic Territories" - Specimen Finish

1980 Canada Silver $1 Coin - "Arctic Territories" - Specimen Finish

Single silver specimen coin, originally released by the Royal Canadian Mint to commemorate the centenary of the transfer of the Arctic Islands from Great Britain to Canada. Supplied in a brand-new 2x2 Mylar coin flip for protection.

Coin Specifications

• 1980 $1 Commemorative Coin celebrating the Arctic Territories Centennial (1880–1980).
• Historical Significance: Marks the 100th anniversary of the British government transferring sovereignty of the Arctic Islands to the Dominion of Canada, a pivotal moment in the nation's territorial history.
• Condition Standard: Struck to Specimen finish—a collector-grade quality featuring frosted relief against mirror-like fields for a sharp "cameo" contrast.
• Reverse Design: Designed by D.D. Paterson, featuring an iconic polar bear standing on an ice floe with the Arctic landscape in the background.
• Obverse Design: Features the 2nd portrait (Young Head) of Queen Elizabeth II by Arnold Machin.
• Key Rarity: This 50% Silver version was issued specifically for collectors; while a nickel version exists for circulation, the silver specimen remains the superior choice for numismatists.
• Catalog Reference: KM# 128.
• Mintage Information: Total mintage for the silver specimen finish was 489,067.
• Technical Specs: 50% Silver, 50% Copper (0.375 oz ASW), 23.33g weight, 36.00mm diameter.

Please Note:

• Package Contents: This listing is for the single specimen coin only.
• Packaging: This coin is supplied in a protective Mylar flip.
  
• Condition Disclaimer: This is an uncirculated specimen. As an authentic silver issue from the 1980s, the coin may exhibit natural toning or minor "milk spots" typical of the Royal Canadian Mint’s silver production from this era.
• Image Note: Images reflect the actual condition of the coin available.

About this Coin:

The 1980 "Arctic Territories" dollar is one of the most popular issues in the Canadian silver series due to its classic wildlife motif. The polar bear design is beautifully executed, with the specimen strike highlighting the texture of the bear's fur against the frosty ice. For Australian collectors, this coin offers a significant silver content (0.375 oz pure) and represents a key chapter in Commonwealth territorial history.