2014 - $20 - 1 oz. Fine Silver Coin - The Bison: The Fight

Until the late 1800s, the bison reigned as the dominant land-grazing animal throughout Canada's grassland regions, from Manitoba to Alberta. Its unique shoulder hump, shaggy mane and are just some of the physical attributes that contribute to the bison's reputation as a symbol of strength.

The usually mild-mannered plains bison (Bison bison bison) may appear quite docile when viewed from afar; however, it is deceptively fast and agile, capable of running faster than a horse and jumping great heights despite its weight. These docile creatures are also highly sensitive to changes in their environment, and have been known to react aggressively if provoked or compelled to defend their young.

During the mating season from June to September, confrontations between competing suitors are common as adult males (or bulls) vie to mate with the female (or cow) of their choice. In a display of strength, the dominant bull will attempt to assert itself over a competing suitor by snorting and stamping at the ground. Should this fail to discourage the challenger, both bulls charge at each other and butt heads in a spectacular battle of wills.

Specifications
 

• Mintage 7500
• Composition fine silver (99.99% pure)
• Finish proof
• Weight (g) 31.39
• Diameter (mm)38
• Edge plain with edge lettering
• Certificate serialized
• Face value 20 dollars
• Artist Claudio D'Angelo (reverse), Susanna Blunt (obverse)