Few sights are as electrifying as a breaching whale, and this 

coin features one of the most iconic species that can be 

witnessed off Canada's east and west coasts. For the first time 

ever, the RCM combines a unique printing and embossing 

process to create a 3D whale that appears to be launching itself 

right off the surface of the coin to jaw dropping effect. 

Exquisitely detailed and a must-have for all whale watchers!

Designed by Canadian artist Matt Bowen, the coin features a 

three-dimensional depiction of a breaching humpback whale 

(Megaptera novaeangliae) in all of its breathtaking splendor. 

Engraved in outstanding detail, the background depicts the 

waters off Canada's coastline, where a lighthouse can be found 

on the headland rocks in the distance. The surface of the ocean 

is itself filled with magnificent detail, alternating between soft 

waves and the smooth ripples caused by the whale's sudden 

emergence. 

But the star of the show is undeniably the whale itself: 

fashioned through a thermoforming process, the embossed 

whale stirs up foamy waves and a stream of ocean spray as it 

launches itself almost clear out of the water! 

Color highlights the rough textural details along its 

tremendous pectoral fins, as well as the distinctive bumps on its 

head and neck. Throughout the design, light is cleverly 

conveyed by the coin's silver surface, which shines like sunlight 

on a bright summer day.