2014 - 50 Cents - 1/25 oz. Pure Gold Coin - Osprey

Raptors need an exceptional set of eyes to spot prey from the sky, and the osprey (Pandion haliaetus) has the added challenge of seeing through rippling water to find a meal.

Spotting fish is one thing; catching it is another. The osprey will hover 40 metres above the water, ready to dive in an instant. Its wings are always slightly bent and never flat like a soaring eagle–a behaviour that gives the osprey its unique angled silhouette.

The osprey's feet are also perfectly designed for fishing. Its outer toe can turn forwards or back to grab hold of a slippery fish. What's more, the soles of its feet are covered with barbs (spicules) to maximize their grip. The osprey is a fascinating bird that is likely to be found wherever there's an abundance of fish–keep an eye out the next time you're exploring Canada's shores and waterways!

Specifications
Mintage 7500
Composition 99.99% pure gold
Finish proof
Weight (g) 1.27
Diameter (mm)13.92
Edge serrated
Certificate serialized
Face value 50 cents
Artist Arnold Nogy (reverse), Susanna Blunt (obverse)