Nestled in Quebec's Nunavik region, on the lunar-esque landscape of the Ungava Peninsula, lies a mesmerizing lake with pure blue waters that captivate the eye from any aerial perspective.

A geological marvel, Pingualuit Crater Lake came into existence when a meteorite struck Earth approximately 1.4 million years ago. This vibrant 99.99% pure silver coin offers a breathtaking view of this natural wonder.

Under normal light, it unveils the Crystal Eye of Nunavik gazing into space. But when illuminated by a black light, it transports you back in time to witness the meteorite that reshaped prehistoric Canada, moments before it left a nearly perfect circular impact scar.

Each coin comes with a black light flashlight. A simple point of the light at the coin for a few seconds activates the embedded paint technology, revealing the stunning blue lake.

Good to know

Features black light paint technology
Includes a black light flashlight
Comprises 99.99% pure silver
Qualifies for free shipping
Exempt from GST and HST
Includes a serialized certificate
Limited supply, only 2,500 coins available
Ideal gift for astronomers, sky gazers, geologists and explorers

About the Pingualuit Crater

Meteorites often strike Earth at an angle, but the one responsible for Pingualuit Crater Lake came down almost vertically, resulting in the near-perfect circular imprint on the Earth's surface. This impact created a 3.4-kilometre diameter ring, which filled with water as the ice sheet receded during the last ice age, forming a lake that plunges 267 meters deep. With no inflows or outlets, this lake boasts some of the clearest freshwater on Earth, and intriguingly, it's home to a single species of fish, the Arctic char, though the mystery remains about how these fish got there.

Formerly known as Chubb Crater and New Quebec Crater, Pingualuit Crater Lake was the first meteorite crater recognized in Canada, although others have since been identified. Local Nunavimmiut have long regarded it as a sacred site of healing. Beyond the Pingualuit region, the crater lake remained a well-kept secret until 1943 when an American aircrew spotted it. Its distinctive shape and vivid color made it a useful navigational aid for pilots, and due to its remote location, geological expeditions to the crater didn't begin until the 1950s.

Thanks to the crater's impressive depth, sediment deposits at the bottom of Pingualuit Crater Lake escaped glacial erosion, preserving them remarkably well. These sediments have provided invaluable insights into climate change and serve as a long-term record of environmental history dating back to at least the last two glacial periods.

About meteorites

Meteorites are captivating remnants of our solar system's history that have descended upon Earth. These cosmic remnants originate from asteroids, comets, or other celestial bodies and provide valuable insights into the universe's composition and evolution. Scientists study meteorites to unravel the mysteries of our solar system's formation. These celestial relics serve as a profound reminder of the profound connection between Earth and the boundless cosmos, granting us a glimpse into the universe's vastness beyond our planet.

About the design

This coin is elegantly encapsulated and presented in a Royal Canadian Mint-branded clamshell box, complete with a sleek black beauty box. The clamshell box boasts a smooth, glossy black exterior with a plush, black velvet-like interior where the coin rests. Upon opening, you'll be greeted by the coin's reverse, showcasing the Pingualuit Crater.

Obverse: Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

The obverse displays the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, crafted by Susanna Blunt, and against a depiction of a starry night in the solar system. It also features a unique marking, including four pearls symbolizing the four effigies adorning Canadian coins and “1952-2022” text, the double date representing her reign. Surrounding the edge, you'll find text that reads "Elizabeth II," "2023," "D.G. Regina," and "50 dollars."

Reverse: Pingualuit Crater Lake

Designed by Canadian artist Neil Hamelin, the coin's reverse offers a vibrant cosmic view of Pingualuit Crater Lake on Quebec's Ungava Peninsula in Nunavik. Above the striking blue lake and its finely engraved surroundings, you'll find a detailed representation of the Moon, shooting stars, and the Milky Way, inspiring awe for the wonders of the cosmos and fostering a deeper appreciation for Earth's splendour and fragility. When viewed under a black light, these elements illuminate, revealing a secondary image: a depiction of the fiery meteorite on its collision course with Earth, positioned directly above its eventual impact site.

Product # 245910

$50 Pure Silver Coin - Pingualuit Crater: Crystal Eye of Nunavik (2023)