1996 Canada 2 Dollar BU

1996 Canada 2 Dollar BU

Specifications: 

• Composition: Outer ring: Nickel; Center: 92% copper, 6% aluminum, and 2% nickel
• Weight: 7.3 grams
• Diameter: 28 mm
• Thickness: 1.8 mm
• Engraver: Obverse: Dora de Pédery-Hunt, Ago Aarand;
• Reverse: Brent Townsend, Ago Aarand
• Illustrator: Obverse: Dora de Pédery-Hunt, Ago Aarand; Reverse: Brent Townsend, Ago Aarand
• Edge: Interrupted serrations
• Magnetic Alignment: ↑↑

Number of circulation coins minted

2 Dollars 1996: 375,483,000

Elizabeth II (1990–2002)

The third version of the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was unveiled in 1990, when Her Majesty was 64 years old. It was the first effigy designed by a Canadian artist—Dora de Pédery-Hunt. It is surrounded by the Latin inscription ELIZABETH II D G REGINA.

Polar Bear

This design was created by Canadian artist Brent Townsend. Although minting the coins was more expensive, costs were significantly reduced thanks to their superior durability compared to paper banknotes. Their lifespan was estimated at approximately 20 years, versus one year for paper. The polar bear was named Churchill, in honor of Winston Churchill and in reference to the animal's frequent appearances in Churchill, Manitoba.

Brilliant Uncirculated (BU)

This is the standard finish found on most Canadian circulation coins.