Royal Canadian Mint

20 dollars

60,08 g

40 mm

Silver 999,9°

7000 pcs. each

Proof finish with yellow gold platting on both obverse and reverse

Nathalie Bertin

Royal Canadian Mint

The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt. Powerful and compelling, this seven-coin series boasts intricate engraving and an artistic concept that outlines the First Nations’ Seven Sacred Teachings for a full life. Set against a plant pattern, each coin depicts mankind’s interaction with the embodiment of these teachings: a soaring eagle offers lessons about love and self-love; the buffalo represents respect for the environment and all living things; the bear offers lessons in courage and bravery; the giant Kitch-Sabe teaches honesty as part of a grounded outlook on life; the beaver imparts wisdom gained by observing nature; the howling wolf teaches humility and a sense of community; and finally the turtle, as guardian of Mother Earth’s truths.

Love, respect, courage, honesty, wisdom, humility and truth: in many First Nations cultures across Canada, these are fundamental philosophies that form the basis for a happy, healthy life. Often embodied in animal or spiritual forms, the Sacred Seven Teachings reinforce the message that humanity shares a deep connection with the world that surrounds us. This beautiful series of coins is a celebration of those beliefs, and of First Nations art; through the layered, artistic designs, each coin stands as an interpretation of these life lessons, which offer words of wisdom we can all live by.