The Peregrine Falcon, a 2011 gold proof coin from Canada.

 

The Royal Canadian Mint presents the 2011 Peregrine Falcon 50 Cents Gold Proof Coin, a commemorative 1/25oz 99.99% pure gold coin featuring majesty in air.

The peregrine Falcon is one of the most breathtaking birds of prey, diving more than 300 km/h to strike its prey. It is increasingly common in urban settings, having adopted tall buildings as cliff top nesting sites. Its near-extinction sparked the ban of DDT chemicals and clearly illustrates the impact of human activity on the environment.

Celebrated First Nation’s artist Corrine Hunt has brought her distinctive vision of traditional Kwakwaka’wakw and Tlingit forms to create these special-edition collectibles. Every design is visual poetry that gives the time-honored traditions of conservation and respect a contemporary voice with powerful lines and well-honed economy in composition.

2011 is the International Year of Forests—a time to reflect on the significant role the wilderness plays in reducing global warming and preserving the earth’s environmental balance.