2011 Canada 25 Cents - Wood Bison Coloured Coin

This is a 2011 Canadian quarter, specifically the 'Wood Bison' commemorative edition from the Legendary Nature series. The coin is struck in multi-ply plated steel with a nickel finish, measuring 23.88 mm in diameter with a weight of 4.4 grams. The reverse design features a stylized wood bison in profile, with a distinct vibrant green enamel circle in the background representing a sun or moon. The inscription 'CANADA - 25 CENTS 2011' follows the bottom curve. The coin displays a reeded edge and a high-luster finish. In terms of condition, there is visible surface wear including minor scuffing on the flat fields and slight softening of the bison's relief. The green enamel appears mostly intact, though there is a slight lack of uniformity near the top edge. There are no signs of major denting or deep gouges, suggesting it has seen moderate circulation. This piece was produced by the Royal Canadian Mint as part of a series celebrating Canada's natural heritage and is a notable example of early 21st-century commemorative colorization techniques in mass-produced currency.

I have virtually examined this 2011 Canada 25 Cents 'Wood Bison' commemorative coin. The piece demonstrates the characteristic multi-ply plated steel luster and the specific green enamel application typical of the Legendary Nature series. My visual assessment confirms authentic design elements; however, the physical condition indicates moderate circulation. I note visible field scuffing, minor bag marks, and slight softening of the bison's high points, which suggests a grade in the Approximately Uncirculated (AU) or high Extra Fine (EF) range. The slight non-uniformity in the enamel at the top edge appears consistent with minor wear rather than a minting error. Market demand for this specific 2011 issue remains steady among casual collectors of Canadian wildlife themes, but because millions were minted, value for circulated examples typically remains near face value. High-grade (MS-65 or higher) specimens might command a slight premium, but this specific coin's wear limits its investment potential. A definitive authentication and grading would require an in-person inspection to verify the metallic composition via XRF (X-ray fluorescence) and to assess the luster under 10x magnification for any signs of cleaning or artificial toning. A physical examination would also clarify if the enamel variation is a post-minting degradation or an original application flaw.