NOCTURNAL BY NATURE: THE BARN OWL - $20 1 oz Fine Silver Coin - 2017 Canada

The light-and-dark contrast sets the perfect mood for a night-time hunt, while enhancing the natural silver shine of the engraved owl in the foreground

The reverse design by Canadian artist Jamie Desrochers features a contemporary stylized depiction of a barn owl (Tyto alba) descending upon its prey, as viewed from the ground looking up at the night sky. In the background, the creative use of black rhodium plating serves as a stunning backdrop for this night-time scene; detailed engraving re-creates the cratered surface of the full moon, which is brought to life through the use of bold frosting peering through the dark plating. The coin’s silver surface also lends itself beautifully to evoking the luminous quality of moonlight on the engraved owl in the foreground, which seemingly shines brighter against the dark image field. Flying on outstretched wings, the owl conveys its stealthy hunting prowess through its fixed stare, as it seems to close in on the viewer. The engraving captures much of the owl’s most distinctive features—from its characteristic heart-shaped face and sharp talons, to the spotted appearance of its wing and tail feathers.