“That bear is killing all the animals and our people will starve. We must stop it,” the elders said. Three great hunters set out in pursuit of the great bear. They tracked it for many moons, across the earth and up into the sky.
The story above is the compelling First Nations legend that explains the origins of the Big Dipper, one of the most recognized formations in the night sky.
The seven stars that make up the Big Dipper are arguably one of the most recognized formations in the night sky. They are visible year-round from northern latitudes, and have inspired countless legends around the globe. Many First Nations legends describe the Big Dipper as a great bear who is hunted ceaselessly by three hunters. The first issue in this four-coin series shows the hunters answering the elders' call to stop the bear before it kills all the animals in the forest and brings starvation to the people.
Specifications
No. 142837
Mintage 7500
Composition 99.99% pure silver
Finish proof
Weight (g) 31.83
Diameter (mm) 40
Edge serrated
Certificate serialized
Face value 25 dollars
Artist Cyril Assiniboine (reverse), Susanna Blunt (obverse)