-
Inventory:
OUT OF STOCK
- Product ID: 37507
Checkout
The 2014 Canada $5 Gold 1/10 oz. First Special Service Force coin honors one of the most storied and courageous military units of World War II. The First Special Service Force, often referred to as the “Devil’s Brigade,” was a unique joint American-Canadian commando unit formed in 1942. This elite group played a critical role in several pivotal battles, including campaigns in Italy and Southern France, earning a legendary reputation for daring raids and exceptional battlefield effectiveness. Their contribution has been memorialized in various ways, but this gold bullion coin stands as a lasting tribute to their bravery and international brotherhood.
The coin’s design is steeped in both historical significance and artistic excellence. The reverse features the insignia of the First Special Service Force, combining the words “USA” and “CANADA” on a black dagger-shaped badge—the iconic shoulder patch worn by members of the brigade. Above and below the insignia, inscriptions read “FIRST SPECIAL SERVICE FORCE” and “PREMIÈRE FORCE DE SERVICE SPÉCIAL,” honoring the unit in both English and French, a nod to Canada's bilingual heritage. Surrounding the central motif is a background of precisely engraved radial lines, giving the coin a radiant, modern touch while enhancing security against counterfeiting.
The obverse of the coin features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Susanna Blunt. This portrait, introduced in 2003, is the fourth official Canadian coinage effigy of the Queen and has become a staple of modern Canadian numismatics. The legend encircling her image includes “ELIZABETH II,” the year of issue “2014,” and the face value “5 DOLLARS.” The portrait is flanked by the same intricate radial lines as the reverse, visually unifying the coin’s two sides. The coin measures 16 millimeters in diameter and has a reeded edge, typical of modern gold bullion coins.
This $5 gold coin was struck by the Royal Canadian Mint, a global leader in precious metal refining and coin production. Established in 1908, the Mint is known for its advanced minting technologies, impeccable craftsmanship, and pioneering innovations in coin security features. The 2014 First Special Service Force gold coin exemplifies these qualities, offering a high-quality tribute to a historic alliance. As a bullion issue, this coin is composed of 1/10 troy ounce of 99.99% pure gold, making it both a commemorative piece and a practical investment vehicle for precious metal collectors.
The coin was issued in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition, meaning it was never intended for general circulation and retains its original luster and sharp strike from the moment it left the minting press. BU coins are carefully handled to avoid wear and abrasions, resulting in a finish that highlights every detail of the engraving. Although not proof or specimen finish, BU coins from the Royal Canadian Mint are known for their impressive clarity and brilliance. This coin is no exception, with its sharply rendered insignia and radiant field creating a highly appealing visual experience.
The mintage for this commemorative bullion coin was limited, though the Royal Canadian Mint did not always publicize exact figures for smaller bullion issues like this. Nonetheless, the coin’s limited distribution combined with its historically significant theme contributes to its collectibility. Many such coins were quickly absorbed into the portfolios of collectors and investors alike, leaving fewer specimens available on the secondary market. The coin’s relatively low face value of $5 belies its intrinsic value, which is tied directly to the market price of gold and its desirability among collectors of military-themed numismatics.
The 2014 First Special Service Force gold coin is part of a broader commemorative program by the Royal Canadian Mint honoring Canada’s military history and international alliances. This coin, in particular, underscores the unity between Canadian and American forces during a critical period in global conflict. The First Special Service Force was disbanded in 1944, but its legacy lived on, influencing the development of elite military units in both countries, including Canada’s Joint Task Force 2 and the U.S. Army’s Green Berets. The coin captures this enduring legacy through its compelling design and high production standards.
Collectors value this coin not only for its gold content but also for its thematic significance. It appeals strongly to those with an interest in military history, Canadian heritage, or U.S.-Canada cooperation. Additionally, the 1/10 oz. weight makes it accessible to a broader audience, offering an affordable entry point into gold investing and numismatic collecting. Its compact size does not diminish the intricacy of the design, which remains sharply defined and visually impactful even on the smaller surface area.
Condition-wise, examples of this coin typically remain in excellent shape due to its status as a non-circulating bullion issue. Coins housed in original Mint packaging or third-party graded holders tend to retain full mint luster with no visible contact marks, milk spots, or toning. Collectors seeking pristine examples often prefer those graded by organizations like PCGS or NGC, though raw BU examples also command strong interest when properly preserved. The gold’s inherent resistance to tarnish, combined with careful handling, ensures that many specimens remain near-flawless even years after release.
Overall, the 2014 Canada $5 Gold 1/10 oz. First Special Service Force BU coin stands out as a meaningful intersection of history, art, and investment. It captures the valor and sacrifice of a legendary unit in a format that is both beautiful and intrinsically valuable. Struck by one of the world’s premier mints from the purest gold available, and bearing a subject of deep historical resonance, the coin is a standout among modern commemoratives. Whether acquired for its tribute to Allied courage, its gold content, or its numismatic appeal, it remains a cherished addition to any collection honoring the past through the enduring medium of coinage.