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- Product ID: 8618
The Canada 2001 Silver Dollar Ballet is a remarkable commemorative coin released by the Royal Canadian Mint to celebrate the art of ballet, one of Canada’s most cherished cultural institutions. Ballet has been an important part of Canadian artistic life for over a century, with the country’s ballet companies gaining worldwide acclaim for their performances and productions. The coin, minted in 2001, was issued to pay tribute to the grace, beauty, and technical skill that ballet represents in the Canadian cultural landscape. This coin recognizes the talent and hard work of Canadian dancers, choreographers, and companies, and serves as a lasting memento of Canada’s rich contributions to the world of dance.
Ballet as an art form has had a significant impact on the cultural fabric of Canada. In the early 20th century, ballet in Canada was heavily influenced by European traditions, and the country quickly began to develop its own unique ballet culture. The National Ballet of Canada, founded in 1951, is one of the premier ballet companies in the world and has been at the forefront of promoting Canadian ballet internationally. Other influential ballet companies, such as the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and Les Grands Ballets Canadiens de Montréal, have also contributed to the country’s artistic reputation. The 2001 Silver Dollar Ballet coin commemorates not just the sport of dance, but the deep artistic traditions that have developed within the Canadian ballet community, and its role in shaping global perceptions of Canadian culture.
The design of the 2001 Silver Dollar Ballet coin, created by Canadian artist Cathy Bursey-Sabourin, beautifully captures the elegance and strength of ballet in a single image. The obverse of the coin features a dynamic depiction of a ballet dancer in mid-performance. The dancer is rendered with exceptional detail, capturing the grace and poise that are hallmarks of the art form. The positioning of the dancer conveys the fluidity and athleticism involved in ballet, and the design highlights both the physical and emotional aspects of the performance. The background of the design is kept relatively simple, emphasizing the dancer’s movements, and the use of negative space creates a sense of airiness and lightness, mirroring the ethereal nature of ballet itself. Surrounding the image are the inscriptions “CANADA,” “2001,” and “BALLET,” marking the coin’s origin, the year of issue, and the art form being commemorated. The reverse of the coin features the traditional effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by artist Dora de Pédery-Hunt. As with most Canadian coins, this effigy acknowledges the nation’s royal heritage. The reverse also includes the inscriptions “ELIZABETH II,” “D.G. REGINA,” and the coin’s denomination. This reverse design ties the coin to Canada’s constitutional monarchy while maintaining a balanced and respectful nod to Canada’s British traditions.
The coin is struck by the Royal Canadian Mint in .925 fine silver, a composition commonly used for many of Canada’s commemorative coins. Weighing approximately 23.17 grams, with a diameter of 36.07 millimeters, the coin is a substantial piece of currency. The quality of the silver used ensures that the coin has intrinsic value, while its limited mintage and beautiful design contribute to its appeal as a collector’s item. The 2001 Silver Dollar Ballet was issued as part of a limited-edition series celebrating Canada’s cultural achievements. The total mintage for this coin was 50,000 pieces, making it a relatively rare collectible and a highly sought-after item among numismatists and dance enthusiasts alike. The limited mintage ensures that the coin will remain an exclusive and valuable item for years to come, while the artistic and cultural significance ensures its continued popularity among collectors.
The design and production quality of the 2001 Silver Dollar Ballet coin reflect the Royal Canadian Mint’s commitment to producing not just functional currency but also works of art. The detailed engraving of the dancer’s form, the intricate folds of her costume, and the fluidity of her posture convey the skill and dedication that the Royal Canadian Mint brings to all its coins. The Mint’s expertise in coin design is evident in the way the details are captured with such precision, offering a visually stunning depiction of ballet while remaining true to the spirit of the art form. The proof-like finish of the coin ensures that every detail is sharply defined, making the design come to life in a way that is both graceful and elegant. The reverse side, featuring the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, is also finely executed, maintaining the high standards that are characteristic of Canadian coinage.
The condition is either BU or Proof, dealer's choice. The limited mintage of the 2001 Silver Dollar Ballet coin contributes significantly to its desirability. With only 50,000 pieces issued, the coin holds an inherent rarity that enhances its value as a collectible. The coin was issued not only for circulation but as a commemorative piece for collectors and art enthusiasts, making its limited availability all the more significant. The combination of the coin’s low mintage, its stunning design, and its cultural significance makes it a sought-after item in the world of numismatics, and a treasured addition to any collection. Its status as a limited-edition piece means that its value is likely to increase over time, making it a wise investment for collectors.
Ballet’s impact on Canadian culture is not limited to the stage; it has influenced a range of creative industries, from theater and film to fashion and design. By commemorating ballet with this silver dollar, the Royal Canadian Mint highlights not just the art form’s historical importance but its ongoing role in Canada’s cultural identity. Ballet represents discipline, beauty, and creativity, values that resonate deeply with the Canadian spirit. The 2001 Silver Dollar Ballet coin serves as a reminder of the dedication and passion of Canadian dancers and choreographers, as well as the cultural contributions they continue to make. The coin is not only a nod to the past but also a tribute to the living legacy of ballet in Canada and its ongoing influence on future generations.
The Canada 2001 Silver Dollar Ballet coin also holds significance beyond the world of numismatics and dance. It reflects the broader role of the performing arts in shaping national identity. Canada’s investment in its cultural institutions, including ballet, helps to foster a sense of pride and unity among its citizens. By issuing a coin that celebrates ballet, the Royal Canadian Mint has underscored the importance of the arts in Canada’s history, and in doing so, it has created a tangible piece of this history that collectors and art enthusiasts can hold and admire. The 2001 Silver Dollar Ballet coin is, therefore, much more than a simple commemorative item; it is a tribute to the heart and soul of Canadian culture.
In conclusion, the Canada 2001 Silver Dollar Ballet coin is a beautiful and meaningful piece of commemorative currency that celebrates one of Canada’s most beloved cultural art forms. With its stunning design, limited mintage, and connection to the rich history of Canadian ballet, the coin holds both artistic and historical value. The Royal Canadian Mint’s dedication to craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from the graceful depiction of the ballet dancer to the elegant portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. The coin stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of ballet in Canada, and as such, it is an essential addition to any collection focused on Canadian culture, the performing arts, or numismatics. Whether valued for its artistic merit, historical importance, or rarity, the 2001 Silver Dollar Ballet is a truly exceptional commemorative coin.