Commems Collection Canadian: 2018 Silver Coloured Proof Set With Medallion

I previously mentioned here on CCF that I was not planning on buying the RCM's 2018 Silver Coloured Proof Set with Medallion as I felt the price ($199.95 CAD) was more than I was willing to pay considering that I was only interested in the set's silver medal. My only option was to wait for folks to break up the sets and purchase the medal individually.

I've faced the same situation before with the various gold-plated and colourized SDs that have been issued only in proof sets. I've been averse to purchasing SDs that have been removed from the sets, however, as I'm wary of their improper handling during removal from the lens and the potential for rub impairments and/or the acquisition of fingerprints that only appear months down the line. To all but eliminate this possibility, I've purchased each of the full special proof sets to get the SD I needed for my collection.

Ultimately, the same thought process won out and I purchase the new colorized set even though I don't intentionally collect the other denominations. I say "don't intentionally" because by purchasing the full proof sets over the years, I have built up a collection of the other denominations.

I can say that the technical quality of the coins and medal are very good. I would imagine that most collectors of silver versions of Canada's circulating coins would be pleased with the set. The colour is vibrant on the coins and the scenes look natural. The proof silver medal has nice cameo contrast and the use of multiple finishes on it (obverse vs. reverse) certainly makes for an attractive piece.

My issue with the medal is that it lacks the engraved detail of the previous RCM medal that depicts the Ottawa and Winnipeg mint facilities. For example, the previous medal shows the individual stones seen on the Ottawa Mint's façade; the new medal shows only a pebbled surface with no delineations of individual stones. (Compare below.)

A similar issue is seen on the reverse which depicts the Winnipeg facility. There is simply more detail throughout the scene depicted - on the building as well as in the landscape surrounding it. (Compare below.)

One would think that with the incorporation of more and better computer technology to assist with the design and engraving of coins and medals, the level of accurately portrayed details would be on the rise. Sadly, this time around, such details took a step in the wrong direction.