This large and visually stunning four-layer prototype coin takes the collector behind the scenes and into the Royal Canadian Mint’s Research and Development Facility, allowing you the opportunity to own one of a very small number of coins representing new technology still in development. The coin is dated 2022, even though it is a 2023 release issue. The coin has a weight of 711 grams – or about 23 troy ounces. Since 2019, the Royal Canadian Mint has occasionally made available to collectors’ small quantities of prototype coins being created within their Research and Development Lab. The Birds in the Backyard design by Neil Hamelin has been separated into four distinct layers of art. The bottom layer features the engraved leaves and branches of a catalpa tree. The two middle layers feature three birds on the upper layer and a nest box and branches on the lower one. These elements are superimposed to create a floating image effect. The top layer consists of a blue jay and leaves that frame the view of this multidimensional scene. The obverse features a laser-frosted maple leaf background pattern and the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt. NumisCan Coins and Jewelry is committed to providing an exceptional experience every time you shop with us. All items are carefully described indicating their condition and stating whether the image is the actual item or a stock image. Unless otherwise noted, Royal Canadian Mint coins are “mint direct” original new condition with case, box and COA. Sometimes errors can happen, and we want to do everything possible to make it right! We are working on listing over 5,000 different coin items. If you are looking for something you don’t see, please send us a message. US / International Buyers.