The 2011 Canada Specimen Set – Baby Elk Special Edition features a beautifully detailed two-dollar specimen coin depicting an elk calf, celebrating Canada’s iconic wildlife. Struck by the Royal Canadian Mint, this specimen issue showcases enhanced detail and refined surfaces compared to circulation coins.

In early summer, elk cows give birth to a single spotted calf weighing approximately 16 kg (35 lbs). Nourished by their mother’s rich milk, calves often double their weight within the first two weeks. During this period, calves hide in dense vegetation while their mothers forage nearby. Biologists believe the calf’s white spots provide natural camouflage among forest plants.

As summer progresses, cows and calves form herds of up to 400 animals, governed by a strict social hierarchy led by a matriarch. These calves grow into powerful adults — bulls averaging 315 kg (700 lbs) and cows around 225 kg (500 lbs) — with bulls distinguished by their large antlers and dark mane.

Design Highlights

Obverse (Front): Queen Elizabeth II

Effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
Inscription: “ELIZABETH II · D · G · REGINA”
Struck in specimen finish for enhanced clarity and detail

Reverse (Back): Baby Elk (Toonie)

Depicts an elk calf in its natural environment
Symbolizes growth, protection, and Canada’s wildlife heritage
Exclusive 2011 wildlife-themed design

Key Features

Special Edition Wildlife Theme: Focuses on the early life of a baby elk
Specimen Finish: Satin-like surfaces with crisp, well-defined details
Low Mintage: Limited to 15,000 sets
Modern Collector Issue: A standout themed specimen from the Royal Canadian Mint

Specifications

Country: Canada
Mint: Royal Canadian Mint (RCM)
Year: 2011
Finish: Specimen
Theme: Baby Elk / Canadian Wildlife
Quantity Produced: 15,000

Material Composition (per official RCM specifications)

$2 Dollar (Toonie) – Baby Elk

Outer Ring: 99%+ Nickel
Inner Core:
- 92% Copper
- 6% Aluminum
- 2% Nickel

Other Coins in the 2011 Specimen Set

$1 Dollar: Nickel electroplated with bronze
50 Cents: Three-ply nickel finish plated steel
25 Cents: Three-ply nickel finish plated steel
10 Cents: Three-ply nickel finish plated steel
5 Cents: Three-ply nickel finish plated steel
1 Cent: Two-ply copper finish plated steel

Technical Specifications (Toonie)

Diameter: 28.03 mm
Weight: 7.30 g
Edge: Interrupted serrations (alternating smooth and reeded)

Packaging

Original Packaging: Issued in official Royal Canadian Mint specimen set packaging with themed presentation and bilingual insert.

2011 Canada Specimen Set – Baby Elk (Special Edition)