8 Dollars - Elizabeth II Goshawk, 1½ oz silver

Reverse

A Goshawk flying over the forest.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
CANADA 2020
9999
FINE SILVER 1 ½ OZ ARGENT PUR
CD

Designer: Steven Hepburn

Edge

Reeded

Comment

This secretive resident of Canada’s boreal forest is an impressive flyer and a short-duration sit-and-wait hunter – it will scan its surroundings for signs of a grouse, rabbit or squirrel before moving on to the next perch. With just a few stiff beats of its powerful wings, it silently soars above the fir trees; and with a sudden burst of speed, it weaves and crashes through the woodland canopy in pursuit of its meal.

A prized falconry bird, the goshawk is one of 19 raptor species found in Canada, where its range stretches from east to west and up to the northern treeline. This grey-coloured bird is slightly bigger than a crow, and it is the largest of the three North American accipiters – fast-flying hawks that are distinguished by rounded wings and a rudder-like tail.

Sightings are infrequent since the goshawk likes to nest and hunt in remote areas. But if you hear its ki-ki-ki-ki call, be sure to heed the warning, because this powerful predator is fearless in its defence of its nest. It is known to swoop down, talons first, to chase away anything – or anyone – that dares intrude upon its territory.

Special Features

Two unique features of cutting-edge security, including the precise radial lines on the obverse and reverse, and a micro-engraved maple leaf with year of issue ‘21’, provides enhanced security on this pure silver bullion coin for added peace of mind.

Interesting fact