NORTHERN FURY Norse Figureheads 1 Oz Silver Coin 20$ Canada 2018

The reverse design by Patrick Belanger presents an artistic rendering of the dragon-headed longship (drakkar), which was regarded as a symbol of Viking power and strength. The background features a precisely engraved depiction of the wooden vessel in open waters, where the wind fills its square sail and propels it forward during a long-distance journey. A troop carrier fit for rulers and chieftains, this ornate longship is equipped with shields while its curved bow rises up towards a dragonhead prow ornament, whose purpose was to ward off evil spirits and sea monsters. Selective colour over engraving emphasizes the elaborate nature of the carved figurehead in the foreground, which offers a magnified view of this feature that gave the Norse vessel its name and added to the ship's imposing appearance. The side view of the figurehead overlaps a green-coloured frame inspired by Norse art elements, including traditional knotwork with an integrated gripping beast motif that also adorns the Norse figurehead. On the left of the reverse, the inscription: "2018" – the year of issue. The obverse of the coin depicts the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the inscriptions: "ELIZABETH II" – the name of the Queen, "CANADA" – the issuing country, "D·G·REGINA" – the latin acronym that stands for "Dei Gratia Regina" and "20 DOLLARS" – the face value.