Canada 20 Dollars 1985 KM#146 PF Speed Skating silver

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  • Product ID: 43198
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  • Description:

    The 1985 Canada 20 Dollars Speed Skating silver coin (KM#146) is a beautifully executed commemorative issue celebrating one of the key events of the XV Olympic Winter Games held in Calgary, Alberta in 1988. Struck by the Royal Canadian Mint in advance of the Games as part of its extensive Olympic coin program, this proof-quality silver coin captures the dynamic spirit of speed skating and showcases the high standards of Canadian numismatic artistry. Issued in limited quantities and struck in sterling silver (.925 fine), the coin holds significance not only for collectors of Olympic memorabilia but also for admirers of finely crafted modern commemoratives.

    The obverse of the coin features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, as designed by Arnold Machin. This portrait, which was widely used on Canadian coinage from 1965 through the late 1980s, shows the Queen facing right, wearing a royal tiara. The surrounding legend reads “ELIZABETH II D·G·REGINA,” which is Latin for “Elizabeth II, by the Grace of God, Queen.” In proof condition, this obverse displays highly polished mirror-like fields contrasted by frosted reliefs, emphasizing the clarity and detail of the portrait. The Royal Canadian Mint’s precision in achieving sharpness and symmetry in the proof strike is evident even in this minimalist obverse layout.

    The reverse is dedicated to the sport of speed skating, one of the most iconic disciplines in the Winter Olympics. It depicts a dynamic image of a male speed skater in full stride, arms tucked behind his back, one leg bent forward and the other extended as he powers across the ice. His uniform and helmet are streamlined for aerodynamics, and the engraving successfully captures a sense of motion and athletic intensity. To the right of the skater is the emblem of the 1988 Calgary Winter Games—a stylized snowflake composed of interlocking “C” shapes representing Calgary, the Olympic rings, and a maple leaf at the center, symbolizing Canada. Below the skater is the denomination “20 DOLLARS” and the date “1985.” This reverse was engraved with great care to ensure both anatomical accuracy and stylized movement, with crisp detail emphasized by the frosted devices and reflective proof fields.

    The coin was struck in sterling silver, composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper, giving it both precious metal value and durability. It weighs 34.08 grams and has a diameter of 40 millimeters, providing ample space to showcase the artistic rendering of the speed skater. The reeded edge and standard proof finish—featuring mirror-like fields and frosted reliefs—underscore the Royal Canadian Mint's commitment to producing coins of the highest quality. This issue is part of a 10-coin series produced between 1985 and 1988 to fund and promote the 1988 Olympic Games, which were the first Winter Olympics ever hosted by Canada.

    The mintage of the 1985 $20 Speed Skating coin was limited to just 500,000 pieces, all of which were struck in proof quality. These coins were distributed individually in black leatherette presentation cases with red velvet interiors and accompanied by numbered certificates of authenticity. Many were also sold as part of multi-coin subscription sets that included matching Olympic-themed designs. Today, coins that retain their original packaging and documentation remain especially attractive to collectors and tend to command a premium on the secondary market.

    In Proof (PF) condition, these coins remain in excellent visual and physical shape, with full strike details, brilliant mirrored fields, and strong cameo contrast between the devices and background. Specimens that have been kept in their original capsules or display boxes typically show no signs of tarnish, hairlines, or environmental damage. When submitted to grading services such as NGC or PCGS, many examples from this series receive high marks—PF68 or PF69—thanks to the quality control employed by the Royal Canadian Mint during production.

    As part of Canada’s Olympic coin program, the 1985 Speed Skating issue holds a meaningful place in the country’s numismatic and sporting history. Calgary's selection as the host city for the 1988 Games marked a major moment of national pride, and these commemorative coins helped raise funds for the event while promoting the Olympic spirit. Speed skating, as one of the most popular and visually dramatic winter sports, was a natural choice for inclusion in the series. The athlete’s stylized pose on the coin conveys both grace and power, reflecting the real-world speed and endurance required in competition.

    Beyond its appeal to numismatists and Olympic collectors, the 1985 $20 Speed Skating silver coin also resonates with those interested in Canadian art, athletics, and cultural heritage. Its blend of precious metal content, low mintage, and thematic richness ensures its continued popularity in the decades since its release. It is also frequently sought by collectors of international Olympic coins and modern proof silver commemoratives, especially those with athletic or national themes.

    In summary, the Certified 1985 Canada $20 Speed Skating silver coin (KM#146) in Proof condition is a visually captivating and historically important modern commemorative. As a key installment in the 1988 Calgary Olympics series, it honors a beloved winter sport while showcasing the exceptional minting capabilities of the Royal Canadian Mint. Whether acquired for its silver content, Olympic connection, or aesthetic appeal, this coin stands as a lasting tribute to Canada's role on the global athletic stage and remains a valued piece in any modern silver collection.

  • Details:
    • Denomination: N/A
    • Year: 1985
    • Diameter: N/A
    • Mint Mark: N/A
    • Thickness: N/A
    • Grade: N/A

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