The Royal Canadian Mint introduced this year the new Specimen Set 2025, an exclusive collection that pays tribute to the monarch butterfly (danaus plexippus), a symbol of pollinator conservation in North America. This edition seeks to raise awareness about habitat restoration and the threat these insects face due to climate change and the loss of their host plant, the milkweed (milkweed).

Image of the Royal Canadian Mint
The set includes all six denominations of coins in circulation in Canada: $2, $1, 50¢, 25¢, 10¢ and 5¢, all with a numismatic finish Specimen. It also comes in a book-style case with a removable lens and a numbered certificate of authenticity. The issue is limited to 30,000 units.
The monarch butterfly on the $1 coin
The money of 1 dollar, exclusive to this set, features a design by artist Julius Csotonyi, depicting a monarch butterfly in flight against a background of flowering milkweed. The design was sculpted by Alex Tirabasso in a detailed bas-relief (basso-relievo), with attention to minute details such as the trunk, antennae, and eyes. The obverse features the effigy of King Charles III, designed by Steven Rosati.
But what is the Specimen finish?
The finish Specimen It is a type of exclusive numismatic termination that combines a shiny or frosted relief with a satin or lined background, which elegantly highlights the design. Unlike circulating coins (standard finish) and p (top quality with mirror polish), the sample They are produced with greater detail and care, offering a visually appealing intermediate option, ideal for collectors.
Main specifications of the set:
| Denomination | Diameter | Weight | Composition: | Canto | Reverso |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CAD $ 2 | 28.03 mm | 6.99 gr | Ring: nickel-plated steel Core: aluminum bronze |
Interrupted striation | Brent Townsend |
| $1 CAD (Monarch) | 26.5 mm | 6.27 gr | Brass coated steel | Smooth | Julius Csotonyi |
| 50 ¢ | 27.13 mm | 6.9 gr | Nickel-coated steel | Fluted | Cathy Bursey-Sabourin |
| 25 ¢ | 23.88 mm | 4.44 gr | Nickel-coated steel | Fluted | Emanuel Hahn |
| 10 ¢ | 18.06 mm | 1.75 gr | Nickel-coated steel | Fluted | Emanuel Hahn |
| 5 ¢ | 21.2 mm | 3.95 gr | Nickel-coated steel | Smooth | GE Kruger Gray |
All obverses were designed by Steven Rosati, with the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III.
Ideal for collectors, educators and nature lovers
This set stands out not only for its beauty but also for its environmental message. It's an excellent educational gift and a gateway to the world of collecting, with an elegant presentation and relevant theme.
You can purchase this set or learn more at the following link:
https://www.mint.ca/en/shop/coins/2025/specimen-set-monarch-butterfly-2025
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