The Dance Screen (The Scream Too): A Rare Canadian Coin That Sold for $1.5 Million

A rare Canadian coin, known as "The Dance Screen (The Scream Too)," has made headlines after being sold at auction for an astonishing $1.5 million. This news has sparked excitement among collectors and history enthusiasts, leading many to revisit their old coin collections with renewed interest.

The coin, which was designed by Chief 7IDANsuu (James Hart), a master carver of Haida art, and minted by the Royal Canadian Mint, is far more than a piece of currency. It is also a work of art that blends history, culture, and craftsmanship. The coin's features are as follows:

The coin is made of 24-karat gold and weighs one kilogram.

It has a diameter of 10 centimeters and a thickness of 1.3 centimeters.

The obverse of the coin features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.

The reverse of the coin depicts a Haida dance screen, known as "The Scream Too," which is carved from argillite.

The screen portrays a supernatural being with a gaping mouth and outstretched arms, surrounded by human figures.

The coin is considered to be one of the finest examples of Haida art and is said to embody the spirit of the Screamers, benevolent beings who bring good fortune and ward off evil spirits.

The coin was sold at auction by the Heffel Fine Art Auction House on November 20, 2024, achieving a record-breaking price of $1.56 million. This surpassed the previous record held by "The Ultimate," a platinum coin weighing one kilogram.

The auction drew immense attention from art lovers and collectors alike. Marie Lemay, CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint, praised the coin as a masterpiece, highlighting its blend of cultural and artistic elements. David Heffel, president of the auction house, described it as an "icon of Canadian art" that brings Haida traditions to life.

The rarity and craftsmanship of "The Dance Screen (The Scream Too)" make it an unparalleled collectible. Here are some key highlights:

The coin is one of only two examples known to exist, with the other being housed in the Canadian Museum of History.

It is the first time that a Haida art piece has been featured on a Canadian gold coin.

The coin was crafted using traditional Haida techniques and materials, including argillite and gold.

It took over a year to complete the carving of the dance screen, which was then meticulously integrated into the coin's design.

The coin is not only a valuable collectible but also a significant piece of Canadian art and cultural heritage. It showcases the enduring legacy of Haida craftsmanship and the deep connection between art and spirituality within Indigenous communities.

"The Dance Screen (The Scream Too)" teaches us that even everyday objects can become extraordinary when infused with cultural and artistic significance. It serves as a reminder of the value of preserving history and traditions. The coin is not only a collector’s dream but also a source of inspiration for art lovers and history enthusiasts worldwide.

Who knows? You might have a hidden treasure in your own collection. Stories like this encourage us to look at everyday objects with fresh eyes, considering their potential value and historical importance.

"The Dance Screen (The Scream Too)" is more than just a coin; it is a symbol of heritage, art, and culture. Its record-breaking auction underscores the importance of celebrating traditional craftsmanship and preserving cultural legacies. Whether you're a collector or simply curious about history, this coin's story offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of rare collectibles.