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The 2013 Canada 1 Dollar Arctic Exploration silver coin (KM#1387) is a brilliant uncirculated (BU) collector issue commemorating the historic bicentennial of Sir John Franklin's birth and Canada’s rich legacy of Arctic exploration. Struck by the Royal Canadian Mint in fine silver, this coin was part of a themed celebration of Canadian explorers who helped chart and understand the vast, remote regions of the Arctic. Combining national pride, maritime history, and superior minting quality, this silver dollar serves as a tribute to Canada's northern frontier and the enduring mystery of its early expeditions.
The obverse of the coin features the contemporary effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Canadian artist Susanna Blunt. Introduced in 2003, this uncrowned portrait shows the Queen facing right, wearing a pearl necklace and earrings. The inscription "ELIZABETH II D·G·REGINA" encircles the design along the rim. The obverse is struck with a frosted finish against a smooth background, offering crisp relief and visual contrast, characteristic of the Royal Canadian Mint’s brilliant uncirculated collector coins.
The reverse design, created by Canadian artist Bonnie Ross, is a masterful tribute to early Arctic exploration. It depicts a well-supplied longboat carrying a team of naval officers and seamen braving the icy waters of the Canadian North. The figures row beneath an overcast sky with icebergs floating in the distance, visually conveying both the peril and determination associated with these early expeditions. The detail is exceptional, from the cold ripple of the Arctic water to the disciplined posture of the sailors. Above the image is the word “CANADA,” while “DOLLAR” and the year “2013” appear below in bold font. The outer rim is raised and lightly frosted, providing a clean frame for the central design.
This coin is struck in .9999 fine silver with a weight of 23.17 grams and a diameter of 36.07 millimeters. It features a reeded edge and brilliant uncirculated finish, offering lustrous fields and finely frosted reliefs. The silver content—nearly three-quarters of a troy ounce—adds tangible bullion value in addition to the coin’s historical and artistic appeal. Though not struck to proof standards, the BU finish ensures strong eye appeal and a high level of detail, making it suitable for both collectors and investors seeking precious metals with numismatic interest.
The mintage of the 2013 Arctic Exploration silver dollar was limited, contributing to its collectibility. The Royal Canadian Mint typically issues silver dollar coins annually in collector-grade packaging, including capsules and presentation boxes, sometimes accompanied by commemorative booklets or certificates of authenticity. Coins that remain in their original Mint-issued packaging are particularly valued and typically exhibit pristine surfaces, with no signs of handling or tarnish.
This 2013 commemorative celebrates the legacy of Sir John Franklin, born in 1786, who led one of the most famous and ultimately tragic expeditions in Canadian Arctic history. His final voyage in 1845 to discover the Northwest Passage resulted in the disappearance of his ships, HMS *Erebus* and HMS *Terror*, and all 129 men aboard. For over a century and a half, the fate of the expedition remained a mystery until recent discoveries of the shipwrecks reignited interest in the Arctic's secrets. The coin pays homage not only to Franklin but also to the broader legacy of exploration, endurance, and national identity forged in the challenging environments of the Canadian North.
In BU condition, this coin maintains nearly flawless surfaces with original luster intact and sharp strike definition across all elements. Minor contact marks may be visible under magnification due to the nature of the BU strike, but overall appearance remains crisp and attractive. Collectors often seek this coin as part of a broader collection of Canadian silver dollars, especially thematic issues focusing on exploration, national history, and maritime achievement.
For collectors of Canadian silver, the 2013 Arctic Exploration dollar bridges two important interests: numismatic craftsmanship and the preservation of Canadian history through commemorative design. Its size, purity, and finish make it a versatile addition to collections focused on modern commemoratives, silver bullion, or exploration-themed issues. The coin also serves as an accessible entry point for new collectors interested in Canadian heritage and world-class minting.
In conclusion, the 2013 Canada 1 Dollar Arctic Exploration silver coin (KM#1387) is a brilliant uncirculated, fine silver commemorative that honors the bravery and vision of Canada’s early Arctic explorers. With its detailed maritime design, .9999 fine silver content, and limited mintage, it remains a standout among modern Canadian collector coins. Whether acquired for its historical significance, its bullion value, or its artistic beauty, the coin serves as a lasting tribute to the spirit of exploration that helped define Canada’s northern identity.