2010 $4 Fine Silver Coin - Great Canadian Locomotives - Selkirk Locomotive

Celebrate Canada’s remarkable railway heritage with the 2010 $20 Fine Silver Selkirk Locomotive Coin, issued by the Royal Canadian Mint as part of its acclaimed Great Canadian Locomotives Series. This beautifully engraved proof coin honours the legendary Selkirk steam locomotive, one of the most powerful engines ever built for the Canadian Pacific Railway and a symbol of the ingenuity that helped conquer the rugged mountain terrain of Western Canada.

Expertly struck in 99.99% pure silver, the coin showcases the streamlined No. 5935 Selkirk locomotive, one of only two surviving examples of this iconic class. The locomotive’s name, “Selkirk,” is engraved along the edge of the coin, adding a distinctive collector feature that complements the exceptional artistry of the reverse design.

Whether you’re passionate about Canadian railway history, engineering achievements, or Royal Canadian Mint collectibles, this coin is a timeless tribute to one of Canada’s greatest industrial accomplishments.

Collector Specifications

• Country: Canada
• Issuer: Royal Canadian Mint
• Year: 2010
• Denomination: $20
• Series: Great Canadian Locomotives
• Composition: 99.99% Fine Silver
• Metal Purity: 99.99% Silver
• Diameter: 38 mm
• Edge: Plain with edge lettering (“Selkirk”)
• Finish: Proof
• Mintage: 10,000
• Artist: Royal Canadian Mint engravers (adapted from imagery provided by the Canadian Pacific Railway Archives), Susanna Blunt (Obverse)
• Packaging: Original Royal Canadian Mint presentation case (if included)
• Certificate of Authenticity: Included (if included—see photos and listing details)

Historical Significance

Introduced in 1929, the Selkirk locomotives were purpose-built by the Montreal Locomotive Works for the Canadian Pacific Railway to tackle the demanding grades of the Selkirk Mountains between Calgary, Alberta and Revelstoke, British Columbia. These massive 2-10-4 steam locomotives hauled both freight and passenger trains through engineering marvels such as the Spiral Tunnels, Field Hill, and the Connaught Tunnel. Their oil-fired design reduced wildfire risk while providing the power needed to conquer some of Canada’s most challenging mountain routes. Of the 36 Selkirk locomotives built, only two survive today, preserving the legacy of one of Canada’s greatest railway achievements.

Why We Selected This Piece

The Selkirk represents the strength, determination, and engineering excellence that helped unite Canada from coast to coast. With its impressive 10,000-coin mintage, outstanding proof finish, and beautifully detailed engraving, this coin is a standout addition to the Coinstead collection. It appeals equally to collectors of Royal Canadian Mint issues, railway history enthusiasts, and those who appreciate exceptional Canadian craftsmanship in precious metal coinage.