The realm of rare coins recently reached extraordinary heights with the sale of a remarkable masterpiece, The Dance Screen (The Scream Too). On November 20, 2024, this extraordinary coin was auctioned by Heffel Fine Art Auction House for an astonishing $1.56 million, captivating both art enthusiasts and numismatics collectors.
Crafted by the Royal Canadian Mint, this 10-kilogram gold coin boasts 99.99% purity and features the exquisite artistry of Chief 7IDANsuu (James Hart), an acclaimed Haida master carver. Not only has the coin shattered records for Canadian coin auctions, but it also stands as a tribute to Haida culture and Canadian craftsmanship.
Background on The Dance Screen Gold Coin
This rare collector’s piece is a testament to the meticulous skill and artistry of the Royal Canadian Mint. Below are its essential details:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | The Dance Screen (The Scream Too) |
| Material | 99.99% Pure Gold |
| Weight | 10 Kilograms |
| Designer | Chief 7IDANsuu (James Hart) |
| Auction Price | $1,561,250 |
| Auction House | Heffel Fine Art Auction House |
The coin surpassed the previous Canadian record held by The Ultimate—a platinum coin—making it the most valuable coin auctioned in Canadian history.
The Royal Canadian Mint and Haida Art: A Cultural Collaboration
The Royal Canadian Mint frequently collaborates with notable Canadian artists to create unique pieces celebrating Canada’s cultural heritage. Partnering with Chief 7IDANsuu brought the intricate beauty of Haida art to this one-of-a-kind creation.
The Artist’s Vision
David Heffel, President of the auction house, highlighted the coin’s cultural impact:
“The artwork by Chief James Hart represents an enduring icon of Canadian art, embodying the traditions and narratives of the Haida Nation.”
Intricate Design and Symbolism
Features of The Dance Screen Gold Coin
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | 99.99% Pure Gold |
| Reverse Design | Haida figures, salmon motifs, and abalone shell inlays |
| Obverse Design | Effigy of King Charles III surrounded by intricate engravings |
| Inlays | Six abalone shell pieces, responsibly sourced |
| Symbolism | Depicts mythological figures central to Haida storytelling |
Haida Mythology and Symbolism
The reverse side celebrates Haida mythology with depictions of iconic figures, each rich with cultural significance:
- Shaman: Represents spiritual guidance and a connection between natural and supernatural realms.
- Beaver, Raven, Eagle, Frog, and Orca: Highlight the cycle of life and their roles in Haida stories.
- Mother Bear with Cubs: Symbolizes nurturing and community strength.
Central to the design is the salmon, portrayed in both animal and human forms, emphasizing its vital role in the ecosystem and Haida traditions.
Unique Features of the Coin’s Design
The coin’s six abalone shell inlays reflect the tradition of Haida copper shields, once symbols of wealth and prosperity. Additionally, the obverse side features an effigy of King Charles III, designed by Canadian artist Steven Rosati, surrounded by intricate engravings inspired by James Hart’s original carvings.
A Record-Breaking Auction
The coin’s sale marked a historic milestone in Canadian numismatics. Its $1.56 million price tag set a new record, surpassing the previous benchmark set by The Ultimate platinum coin.
The Mint’s Perspective
Marie Lemay, CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint, shared her excitement:
“We are thrilled by the collector interest and delighted to see the exceptional skill of the Mint and the talent of Chief 7IDANsuu celebrated in this masterpiece.”
Why The Dance Screen Gold Coin Stands Out
This coin’s allure lies in its cultural and artistic value, transcending its material worth. Its combination of Haida storytelling, masterful craftsmanship, and historic importance makes it a treasure for both collectors and cultural enthusiasts.
- Unique Artistic Value: Haida designs bring deeply symbolic and visually stunning imagery.
- Material Value: Comprising 10 kilograms of 99.99% pure gold, it is also a significant investment.
- Historical Achievement: Its record-breaking sale highlights the intersection of art, history, and numismatics.
The sale of The Dance Screen gold coin is not merely a transaction but a celebration of artistry, culture, and history. As an enduring symbol of Haida heritage and Canadian craftsmanship, this coin continues to inspire and uphold the rich traditions it represents.
FAQs
What makes this coin so valuable?
The combination of Haida cultural artistry, its 99.99% pure gold composition, and its record-breaking auction price contribute to its immense value.
Who designed the coin?
The reverse design was created by Chief 7IDANsuu (James Hart), a master Haida carver, while the obverse effigy of King Charles III was crafted by Steven Rosati.
What is the coin’s weight and material?
The coin weighs 10 kilograms and is made of 99.99% pure gold.
