Royal Canadian Mint Releases New Sundial Coin That Actually Tells Time

If you’re looking to add a unique item to your coin collection, the Royal Canadian Mint has released a new piece that not only looks like a sundial but functions as one, too.

The Royal Canadian Mint has unveiled a unique and functional addition to its coin collection - a fine silver sundial coin. This meticulously crafted piece not only serves as a stunning collectible but also tells the time when placed in the sun.

The sundial, recognized as the world's earliest timekeeping device, comprises two primary components: a flat circular plate and a dial or stick known as the gnomon. When properly aligned, a sundial indicates the local solar time based on the sun's shadow on its surface.

Similarly, the Mint's new coin features a rhodium-plated brass gnomon. When positioned in the sun and pointed towards true north, the gnomon casts a shadow onto the coin's base, displaying the time. However, as noted by the Mint, "some additional adjustments may be required due to longitude and the time of year."

Canadian artist Anna Bucciarelli adorned the coin's reverse with acanthus leaves and Roman numerals around the edge to indicate the time. Staying true to the sundial theme, a sunflower anchors the gnomon.

"This coin was my favourite design challenge yet," said Bucciarelli, who is renowned for her intricate watercolor pieces. "There’s a lot of circular symmetry to be found here: some of the organic details are emanating from the sunflower representation of the sun, which supports the ornate gnomon, while others convey a more spiral-like movement that echoes the passage of time."

This non-circulating coin is available for purchase through the Royal Canadian Mint's website. With a mintage of 5,000 and a limit of two coins per customer, collectors are advised to act promptly to secure this unique addition to their collections.

The coin is presented in a black Royal Canadian Mint-branded clamshell with a black beauty box. It has a face value of $20 and retails for $159.95.

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