Coming in on outstretched wings, the Canada goose descends with a grace and ease that belie its large size. This fine silver coin captures the full majesty of a classic Canadian icon in motion, with a colourful 3D element that simulates the goose’s splashy descent, feet first, into a quintessentially Canadian lake setting. The result of a combined printing and embossing process known as thermoforming, the 2D-turned-3D shape arches over the coin’s surface to mimic the Canada goose’s swift approach and landing!

Designed by Royal Canadian Mint engraver Matthew Bowen, the reverse features a three-dimensional rendering of a Canada goose (Branta canadensis) over an engraved background. The uniquely shaped element is the product of a combined printing and embossing process known as thermoforming, which colourfully re-creates the large-sized waterfowl’s distinctive appearance in great dimensional detail. Firmly affixed to the coin’s surface, the goose arches above the design to simulate its arrival in a lake setting, where several other members of the flock are already paddling about on the water. The goose’s long neck is curved forward as it uses its feet to break, creating a splash of water that conveys the swiftness of its descent.