A Stunning Silver Coin That Looks Like a Toonie—But It’s Not
At first glance, you might mistake it for loose change. But this new collector’s coin from the Royal Canadian Mint is no ordinary toonie. While it mimics the familiar two-tone design of Canada’s $2 coin, this freshly released $20 Polar Bear coin is actually crafted from 99.99% pure silver—and it retails for $134.95.
This limited-edition piece is part of the 2025 Animal Portraits series, a special collection celebrating Canada’s most iconic wildlife. And with only 7,500 units available across the country, it’s already a hot item for collectors.
Table of Contents
A Closer Look at the 2025 Polar Bear Collector Coin
A Reverse Toonie in Appearance
Unlike the standard toonie, which features a gold-coloured centre with a silver edge, this collector’s coin flips the design. The outer ring is plated in yellow gold, while the centre, where the polar bear stands, remains a bright, high-contrast silver.
Striking Polar Bear Artwork
Canadian artist Trevor Tennant brings the coin to life with a dynamic portrayal of a polar bear mid-stride. The bear’s front paws extend past the silver core onto the gold outer ring, creating a 3D-like effect that makes it seem as if the bear is stepping off the coin and into your palm.
Honouring Canada’s Arctic Icon
Canada is home to two-thirds of the world’s polar bears, making this a fitting subject for a national collector piece. The design doesn’t just showcase wildlife—it taps into a broader cultural and environmental identity deeply rooted in the Canadian North.
The Royal Canadian Mint’s Animal Portraits Series
The Polar Bear coin is one of three limited-edition silver coins released in 2025:
- Polar Bear (Released March 2025)
- Elk (Released June 2025)
- Grey Wolf (Coming November 2025)
Each coin features 99.99% pure silver and its own unique design. The Elk coin resembles a gold-plated quarter, while the Grey Wolf’s artwork will be unveiled later this year.
Featuring King Charles III on the Reverse
The back of the coin bears the official effigy of King Charles III, created by Canadian artist Steven Rosati. In a creative twist, the King’s portrait is gold-plated, while the rest of the background remains in silver—mirroring the inverted colour scheme on the front.
Where to Buy the 2025 Polar Bear Coin
Collectors can order the coin directly from the or visit one of their official boutiques in Ottawa or Winnipeg. Though the coin was launched in March 2025, it has been temporarily out of stock, likely due to overwhelming demand.
7 Canadian Coins You Might Find in Your Change in 2025 Including a Light Blue Toonie
Canada just revealed a flashy new high-end coin
Why This Collector Coin Is More Than Pocket Change
Though its $20 face value suggests it could be used as legal tender, its actual retail price of $134.95—and its fine silver content—make it a premium collectible, not something to be tossed into a coin jar.
Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or simply love beautifully crafted keepsakes, this gold-trimmed polar bear coin is a standout piece worthy of display. With its artistic design, high purity silver, and limited availability, it’s not just another commemorative coin—it’s a tiny masterpiece of Canadian heritage.
