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The 1986 Canada 20 Dollars Cross-Country Skiing silver coin (KM#150) is a meticulously crafted proof commemorative issued by the Royal Canadian Mint as part of the official numismatic program for the XV Olympic Winter Games, held in Calgary in 1988. This coin belongs to the 10-coin sterling silver $20 series released between 1985 and 1988 to celebrate the host nation's athletic spirit and help fund the organization of the Games. Struck in .925 fine silver and showcasing the artistry and minting precision for which the Royal Canadian Mint is renowned, the Cross-Country Skiing issue pays tribute to one of the most physically demanding and enduring Olympic winter sports.
The obverse of the coin features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, designed by sculptor Arnold Machin. This profile portrait shows the Queen facing right, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. Surrounding the portrait is the legend “ELIZABETH II D·G·REGINA,” an abbreviation of the Latin for “Elizabeth II, by the Grace of God, Queen.” The simplicity of the obverse is balanced by its elegance and strong relief, and in proof format, the frosted bust of the Queen contrasts sharply with the brilliant, mirror-polished field, creating a refined, cameo effect that enhances the presentation of the coin.
The reverse of the coin showcases a cross-country skier in full motion, arms extended forward and back as they push through the snow-covered terrain. The dynamic posture of the figure conveys the intense physical effort and rhythmic pace that define this endurance sport. The skier is dressed in sleek athletic gear appropriate to high-level Olympic competition. To the right of the figure is the emblem of the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics—a stylized snowflake composed of interlocking “C” shapes, with the Olympic rings and a maple leaf at the center, signifying Canada’s role as host. Below the central image are the inscriptions “20 DOLLARS” and the date “1986.”
The coin was struck in sterling silver, composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper, with a total weight of 34.08 grams and a diameter of 40 millimeters. The actual silver content of the coin is 31.5 grams (or approximately 1.0145 troy ounces). Its reeded edge and generous surface area make it ideal for displaying fine detail. Each piece was struck to proof quality using polished dies and carefully prepared planchets, resulting in exceptional clarity and deep cameo contrast between the frosted design elements and the mirrored fields.
The mintage for the 1986 $20 Cross-Country Skiing coin was limited to 500,000 pieces. All were issued in proof format and originally distributed in a black leatherette clamshell presentation case lined with red velvet, accompanied by a bilingual certificate of authenticity. Many of these coins have remained in their original mint packaging, preserving their surfaces from tarnish, contact marks, and environmental damage. The packaging and certification add both aesthetic and collectible value, and coins in pristine condition continue to trade actively in the secondary numismatic market.
In Proof (PF) condition, these coins exhibit exceptional craftsmanship. The skier's posture and clothing are rendered in crisp relief, and the fine lines of the skis and poles retain sharpness that is highlighted against the mirrored field. The Calgary Olympic emblem and inscriptions are clearly defined, and the overall finish demonstrates the Royal Canadian Mint’s exacting quality standards. These features make high-grade examples suitable for grading by professional services such as NGC or PCGS, where they often achieve PF68 or PF69 grades.
Cross-country skiing, as a sport, represents endurance, determination, and a deep connection to winter landscapes. Its inclusion in the Calgary 1988 Olympic coin series reflects Canada’s commitment to showcasing winter sports that emphasize both athletic achievement and natural heritage. The design conveys a sense of speed, discipline, and harmony with the snowy environment—hallmarks of the sport and its long tradition in the Winter Games. The coin captures this dynamic in a balanced and aesthetically pleasing composition.
This coin holds special appeal for collectors of Olympic memorabilia, Canadian commemorative issues, and modern silver proof coins. Its silver content ensures intrinsic value, while its design, theme, and limited mintage elevate it to the level of numismatic art. As part of a complete Calgary Olympic $20 coin set, it adds thematic richness and visual variety. For those collecting by sport, it serves as a fine representation of skiing disciplines, complementing other coins in the series that depict biathlon, alpine skiing, and speed skating.
The 1986 Cross-Country Skiing coin is also a reflection of the broader cultural and economic efforts behind the 1988 Calgary Olympics. The coin program was not only a financial support mechanism for the Games but also a showcase of Canadian artistry and craftsmanship. Today, coins from this series continue to be appreciated for their historical context, as well as their consistent proof quality and bold, athletic themes.
In conclusion, the 1986 Canada $20 Cross-Country Skiing silver coin (KM#150) stands as a beautifully executed proof commemorative with enduring numismatic and cultural value. Its striking design, limited mintage, and Olympic heritage make it an essential piece for collectors of Canadian coinage and modern commemoratives. Whether acquired for its silver content, sport-themed imagery, or place in Olympic history, it remains a testament to the Royal Canadian Mint’s artistry and Canada’s celebration of winter sport excellence.