2013 Canada 50-Cent Silver-Plated Coin – Butterflies of Canada: Canadian Tiger Swallowtail

A Canadian tiger swallowtail rests on a golden dandelion in this 2013 50-cent coin — the very first issue in the Royal Canadian Mint's Butterflies of Canada series. Artist Celia Godkin's reverse design pairs a mirror-like proof background with selective colour, bringing the butterfly's signature yellow-and-black tiger striping to vivid life on a generous 42 mm canvas.

This is a silver-plated copper collector coin — prized for its artistry and series-first status rather than metal content. It arrives complete in its original Royal Canadian Mint maroon clamshell case with serialized certificate of authenticity.

Collector Specifications

• Country: Canada
• Year: 2013
• Denomination: 50 Cents
• Composition: Silver-Plated Copper
• Weight: 33.2 g
• Diameter: 42 mm
• Finish: Proof with selective colour
• Edge: Serrated
• Certificate: Serialized
• Condition: Excellent — pristine surfaces with vibrant colour, sealed in original mint capsule and packaging
• Mintage: 20,000
• Designer: Celia Godkin (reverse); Susanna Blunt (obverse)

Historical Significance

The Canadian tiger swallowtail (Papilio canadensis) is one of Canada's most recognizable butterflies, with a wingspan reaching ten centimetres — a true harbinger of spring across the country. As the flagship coin of the Butterflies of Canada program, this first issue holds a special place for series collectors, and its large-format coloured design made it one of the Mint's most approachable collector pieces of 2013.

Why We Love This One

Bright, colourful and big — 42 mm is a lot of coin. As the very first Butterflies of Canada issue, it's the natural place to start the series.

Please note: this item is sold as is, including its packaging. The photos show the exact piece you will receive.