The Royal Canadian Mint's Unique 10-Kilogram Gold Coin, The Dance Screen (The Scream Too), Sells for a Record $1,561,250 CAD

The sale sets a new record for the highest price ever achieved at auction for a coin in Canada, surpassing the record previously held by The Ultimate, a one-kilogram platinum coin.

A unique 10-kilogram gold coin featuring artwork by renowned Haida artist Chief 7IDANsuu (James Hart) has sold for $1,561,250 CAD, including buyer’s premium, at a live auction conducted by Heffel Fine Art Auction House on Nov. 20, 2024.

The sale sets a new record for the highest price ever achieved at auction for a coin in Canada, surpassing the record previously held by The Ultimate, a one-kilogram platinum coin.

The coin, produced by the Royal Canadian Mint, is crafted from 99.99 per cent pure Canadian gold and features intricate carvings inspired by Chief Hart’s original cedar panel, The Dance Screen (The Scream Too). Its reverse depicts traditional Haida imagery, including a Shaman, Beaver, Raven, Eagle, Frog, Orca, and Mother Bear with cubs, all connected to the salmon—an essential symbol in Haida culture. The design is further enhanced with six inlays of responsibly sourced abalone shell.

“We are thrilled by the collector interest in this unique coin and delighted that the skill of the Royal Canadian Mint and the talent of Chief 7IDANsuu (James Hart) have been recognized by the buyer of this rare and beautiful 10 kg pure gold masterpiece,” said Marie Lemay, president and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint.

The coin’s obverse features the effigy of King Charles III, designed by Canadian artist Steven Rosati, framed by subtle sketch lines referencing the original carving.

David Heffel, president of Heffel Fine Art Auction House, highlighted the cultural and artistic significance of the piece: “The profoundly meaningful artwork by Chief James Hart, featured on this exceptional coin, reflects the cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the Haida Nation. This sale represents a new milestone, and we are honoured to see this masterpiece placed in a distinguished private collection.”

The record-setting sale highlights the growing demand for rare numismatic pieces that combine cultural significance and artistic excellence. The anonymous buyer of the coin, which serves as the flagship of the Mint’s 2024 Opulence Collection, has added a historically and artistically significant work to their collection.