2024 American Goldfinch $20 Fine Silver Coin

It’s rather uncommon for an American to appear on a Canadian coin, but the latest ornithological issue from the Royal Canadian Mint reminds one what being American means from a bird’s perspective.

The latest coin in the Royal Canadian Mint’s Proof .9999 fine silver $20 Colourful Birds series features the American goldfinch, in selective color.

The coin was issued by the RCM on June 4 and is the fourth in the series, following the 2021 blue jay, 2022 cedar waxwing, and 2023 Northern cardinal.

Each coin in the series highlights nature’s contrasting colors throughout the seasons.

The American goldfinch is easily detected on the coin by its black cap and yellow plumage, and is perched on a cluster of purple-colored aster flowers that rise up in the foreground.

The male goldfinch is perched on the flowers against a backdrop of a barn and wood fence, with a gate that opens up to a dirt road in the engraved background.

The obverse features the effigy of King Charles III by Canadian artist Steven Rosati.

The reverse was designed by Canadian artist Tony Bianco, who is a longtime bird enthusiast.

“I’ve been a bird watcher since I was a youth, and one of my favourites has always been the goldfinch,” said Bianco in a press release. “Their friendly nature and bold colour make them particularly enticing to an artist. Pairing the striking yellow, black and white with the soft lavender of the aster flower makes a natural and striking combination.”

The coin weighs 31.39 grams, measures 38 millimeters in diameter, and has a mintage limit of 7,500 pieces.

It is packaged in a black clamshell case with a black beauty box.

The coin has an issue price of $119.95 Canadian (the exact price in U.S. funds will be determined at the time or purchase).