An affordable 0.5 gram pure gold coin is available from the Royal Canadian Mint with the release of the 2014 25c Proof Chipmunk Gold Coin.

Shown on the reverse of the new release is an image of a single eastern chipmunk.

Take a walk in any forest in eastern Canada and you are likely to spot an eastern chipmunk scurrying about in search of food. Acorns and nuts are its favourites, and it can pack away a surprising amount using the expandable pouches in its cheeks.

Susanna Blunt’s effigy of Queen Elizabeth II is found on the obverse of the legal tender release. Inscriptions include "ELIZABETH II" and "D G REGINA."

The image of the chipmunk is the work of Canadian artist Tony Bianco. It shows the small rodent in a classic side profile stance. The contrasting stripes along the creatures back can easily be seen along with its most prized treasure in its hands — an acorn. Inscriptions on the reverse include "CANADA," "2014," "25 CENTS" and the artist’s initials of "TB."

Сoin is encapsulated and presented in a Royal Canadian Mint-branded maroon clamshell with black beauty box.