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The 1986 Canada 20 Dollars Biathlon silver coin (KM#147) is part of the celebrated ten-coin series issued by the Royal Canadian Mint to commemorate the XV Olympic Winter Games held in Calgary in 1988. Struck in sterling silver and finished to proof quality, this coin highlights the sport of biathlon—a demanding winter discipline combining cross-country skiing and precision rifle shooting. Issued two years ahead of the Games, the 1986 biathlon coin showcases the Mint’s artistic and technical capabilities while contributing to Canada’s Olympic fundraising efforts. Its limited mintage, dynamic design, and sterling silver content make it a popular choice among collectors of modern commemoratives and Olympic-themed issues.
The obverse of the coin features the elegant portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by British artist Arnold Machin. The Queen is depicted in right-facing profile, wearing a royal tiara, and the design is surrounded by the Latin legend “ELIZABETH II D·G·REGINA.” This obverse was used across many Canadian coin series during the 1965–1989 period and is well known for its regal simplicity. In proof condition, the Queen’s portrait appears frosted and crisply defined, contrasting beautifully with the mirror-like polished fields, a hallmark of the Royal Canadian Mint’s high-quality presentation standards.
The reverse of the coin is dedicated to the sport of biathlon and features a detailed depiction of a male biathlete in motion. The figure is shown on skis in a mid-stride position, leaning forward for speed and balance while holding a rifle across his back. The pose conveys dynamic energy and athletic intensity, successfully blending the endurance of skiing with the calm focus required for marksmanship. To the right of the athlete is the official emblem of the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics—a snowflake made of stylized “C” shapes, with the Olympic rings and a maple leaf at the center. The denomination “20 DOLLARS” and the date “1986” appear along the lower edge of the reverse, balancing the composition with clear and legible inscriptions.
The coin was struck in sterling silver (.925 fine) with a total weight of 34.08 grams and a diameter of 40 millimeters, making it both substantial and elegantly proportioned. It contains 31.5 grams of pure silver, or just over 1 troy ounce. The coin features a reeded edge and was produced using high-pressure proof striking techniques that deliver deeply mirrored fields and frosted design elements, creating a strong cameo contrast. These production methods ensure that every design element—from the folds in the athlete’s uniform to the texture of the skis—is brought into sharp visual relief.
The 1986 $20 Biathlon coin was part of a multi-year Olympic commemorative coin program initiated by the Royal Canadian Mint to raise funds for the Calgary Games and promote Canadian culture and sport. The coin was issued with a limited mintage of 500,000 pieces, all in proof format, and sold in elegant clamshell cases lined with velvet and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. Many of these coins remain in their original packaging, preserved by collectors who value both their artistic and historic qualities.
In Proof (PF) condition, the coin displays full strike sharpness, brilliant mirrored surfaces, and strong frosted contrast on the raised devices. Specimens that have been stored in their original capsules generally exhibit no signs of handling, oxidation, or environmental damage. When submitted to professional grading services such as NGC or PCGS, these coins often receive high designations like PF68 or PF69, testifying to the Royal Canadian Mint’s quality control and production precision.
As a thematic subject, biathlon represents the perfect fusion of two contrasting disciplines—endurance skiing and accurate rifle shooting. The sport has its origins in Scandinavian military training and has been a staple of the Olympic Winter Games since 1960. Its inclusion in the Canadian Olympic silver series reflects the country’s deep engagement with winter sports and the Games themselves. The portrayal of the biathlete in full stride pays tribute to the athlete’s stamina, focus, and composure, making the coin not only a beautiful numismatic item but also a visual homage to the Olympic spirit.
The 1986 $20 Biathlon coin is a logical addition to any collection focused on Olympic history, Canadian silver coinage, or modern proof issues. Its large size, limited mintage, and rich detail appeal to collectors who value both substance and artistry. The Calgary Winter Games of 1988 marked a significant moment in Canada’s Olympic legacy, and this coin serves as a tangible reminder of that era. It also makes an excellent gift or educational tool for those interested in the history of sport, numismatics, or Canadian national identity.
For collectors assembling the full 10-coin set of Calgary 1988 Olympic $20 silver proofs, the biathlon issue is a critical component, offering both stylistic balance and thematic depth. Its reverse design, like the others in the series, stands as a tribute to athletic excellence and Canadian minting craftsmanship. Whether appreciated for its technical quality, silver content, or cultural resonance, the 1986 KM#147 Biathlon coin is a standout among modern Olympic commemoratives.
In conclusion, the 1986 Canada $20 Biathlon silver proof coin (KM#147) exemplifies the finest qualities of modern Canadian coinage—artistic excellence, technical precision, and historical significance. As a tribute to one of the most demanding and unique winter Olympic sports, it offers collectors a rich blend of national pride, athleticism, and precious metal value. Preserved in proof condition and certified by one of the world’s premier mints, it continues to hold its place as a cherished keepsake of Canada’s Olympic heritage.