Agnico Eagle Reports Third Quarter 2017 Results Including Record Quarterly Gold Production

Improved 2017 Production and Cost Guidance; Nunavut Projects Remain on Schedule and on Budget; Dividend Increased by 10%

TORONTO, Oct. 25, 2017 - Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd. (NYSE:AEM, TSX:AEM) ("Agnico Eagle" or the "Company") today reported quarterly net income of $71.0 million, or $0.31 per share, for the third quarter of 2017.  This result includes non-cash foreign currency translation gains on deferred tax liabilities of $5.7 million ($0.03 per share), unrealized gains on financial instruments (net of tax) of $5.3 million ($0.02 per share), non-cash foreign currency translation losses of $4.3 million ($0.02 per share) and various mark-to-market and other adjustment losses (net of tax) of $2.2 million ($0.01 per share).  Excluding these items would result in adjusted net income¹ of $66.5 million or $0.29 per share for the third quarter of 2017.  In the third quarter of 2016, the Company reported net income of $49.4 million or $0.22 per share.

Not included in the third quarter of 2017 adjusted net income is non-cash stock option expense of $3.7 million ($0.02 per share).

For the first nine months of 2017, the Company reported net income of $208.8 million, or $0.91 per share.  This compares with the first nine months of 2016 when net income was $96.2 million, or $0.43 per share.  Financial results in the 2017 period were positively affected by higher gold sales volumes (approximately 3%) and lower depreciation expense partly offset by lower realized gold prices.

In the third quarter of 2017, cash provided by operating activities decreased to $194.1 million ($207.9 million before changes in non-cash components of working capital) compared with cash provided by operating activities of $282.9 million in the third quarter of 2016 ($233.7 million before changes in non-cash components of working capital).  The decrease in cash provided by operating activities before changes in non-cash components of working capital during the current period was largely due to lower realized gold prices.

 

For the first nine months of 2017, cash provided by operating activities was $600.6 million ($629.9 million before changes in non-cash components of working capital), as compared with the first nine months of 2016 when cash provided by operating activities was $658.0 million ($593.9 million before changes in non-cash components of working capital).  The increase in cash provided by operating activities before changes in working capital during the first nine months of 2017 was mainly due to a combination of higher gold and by-product metals sales volumes partly offset by lower realized gold prices.

"We continued to see strong operating performance in the third quarter, culminating in record gold production and strong cash flow generation.  Given these strong results, we have increased our 2017 production guidance and have increased our dividend by 10%", said Sean Boyd, Agnico Eagle's Chief Executive Officer.  "Our major projects in Nunavut continue to advance on time and on budget and we are excited by the significant growth in gold production and the related cash flows that these projects are forecast to provide", added Mr. Boyd.

Third quarter 2017 highlights include:

• Continued strong operating performance yields record quarterly gold production – Payable gold production² in the third quarter of 2017 was 454,362 ounces at production costs per ounce of $578, total cash costs³ per ounce of $546 and all-in sustaining costs per ounce ⁴ ("AISC") of $789
  
  
• Higher than expected grades and tonnage drive record quarterly gold production at the LaRonde mine – Payable gold production in the third quarter of 2017 was 105,345 ounces at production costs per ounce of $377 and total cash costs per ounce of $328
  
  
• Full year production guidance increased and unit cost forecasts reduced – Given the strong nine month operational performance, 2017 production is now expected to exceed 1.68 million ounces of gold compared to previous guidance of 1.62 million ounces of gold. Total cash costs per ounce are now expected to be $570 to $600 (previously $580 to $610) and AISC are expected to be $820 to $870 per ounce (previously $830 to $880)
  
  
• Meliadine project continues to advance on schedule and on budget – Surface construction activities are progressing well, with outside cladding and roofing expected to be completed on the mill facility, multi-service building and powerhouse in November 2017. Underground development is on plan and critical mining equipment, which was received during the 2017 summer sealift, is currently being commissioned
  
  
• Drilling at Amaruq extends Whale Tail mineralization at depth, and demonstrates continuity and improving grades in the eastern part of V Zone – Significant results include: 7.3 grams per tonne ("g/t") over 16.1 metres at a depth of 627 metres at Whale Tail and 20.6 g/t gold over 6.2 metres at the V Zone at 452 metres depth, beneath the current planned pit outline
  
  
• Quarterly dividend increased by 10% – Company has declared an $0.11 quarterly dividend. The previous quarterly dividend was $0.10

 

Third Quarter Financial and Production Highlights – Record Gold Production, Lower Production Costs – 2017 Cost Forecasts Decrease

In the third quarter of 2017, strong operational performance continued at the Company's mines.  Payable gold production was 454,362 ounces, compared to 416,187 ounces in the prior-year period.  The higher level of production in the 2017 period was primarily due to higher grades mined at LaRonde, Meadowbank and Canadian Malartic.  A detailed description of the production of each of the Company's mines is set out below.

In the first nine months of 2017, payable gold production was 1,300,321 ounces, compared to 1,236,455 ounces in the prior-year period.  The higher level of production in the 2017 period was primarily due to higher grades mined at LaRonde, Meadowbank and Canadian Malartic.

Production costs per ounce for the third quarter of 2017 were $578, which was 13% lower, compared to $666 in the prior-year period.  Total cash costs per ounce for the third quarter of 2017 were $546, which was 5% lower compared to $575 per ounce in the prior-year period.  Production costs per ounce and total cash costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 were positively affected by record quarterly production.  A detailed description of the cost performance of each of the Company's mines is set out below.

Production costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 were $596, which was 5% lower, compared to $628 in the prior-year period.  Total cash costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 were $547, compared with $580 in the prior-year period.  Production costs per ounce and total cash costs per ounce in the first nine months of 2017 were positively affected by higher production of gold at LaRonde, Meadowbank, and Canadian Malartic.  The Company now forecasts a decrease in total cash costs per ounce for 2017 to $570 to $600 per ounce, which is down from previous guidance of $580 to $610 per ounce.

AISC for the third quarter of 2017 were $789, which was 4% lower, compared to $821 in the prior-year period.  The lower AISC is primarily due to lower total cash costs per ounce and lower sustaining capital expenditures compared to the prior-year period.

AISC for the first nine months of 2017 was $772, compared to $821 in the prior-year period.  The lower AISC is primarily due to lower total cash costs per ounce and lower sustaining capital expenditures compared to the prior-year period.  The Company now forecasts a decrease in AISC for 2017 to $820 to $870 per ounce, which is down from previous guidance of $830 to $880 per ounce.

Cash Position Remains Strong

Cash and cash equivalents and short term investments decreased to $865.6 million at September 30, 2017, from the June 30, 2017 balance of $952.4 million due to the ongoing investment in the Company's growth projects.

The outstanding balance on the Company's credit facility remained nil at September 30, 2017.  This results in available credit lines of approximately $1.2 billion, not including the uncommitted $300 million accordion feature.

On October 25, 2017, the Company amended its $1.2 billion credit facility to extend the maturity date from June 22, 2021 to June 22, 2022.

The Company's $500 million short form base shelf prospectus expired on October 4, 2017.  The Company intends to file a new base shelf prospectus, on substantially the same terms, qualifying up to $500 million of debt securities, common shares and warrants.  The Company has no present intention to offer securities pursuant to the new base shelf prospectus.  It has been the Company's practice to maintain a $500 million base shelf prospectus since 2002.  The notice set out in this paragraph does not constitute an offer of any securities for sale or an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities.

Approximately 35% of the Company's remaining 2017 Canadian dollar exposure is hedged at a floor price of 1.30 US$/C$.  Approximately 11% of the Company's remaining 2017 Euro exposure is hedged at a floor price of 1.10 EUR$/US$.  Approximately 31% of the Company's remaining 2017 Mexican Peso exposure is hedged at a floor price of 18.60 US$/MXP.

Capital Expenditures

The total estimated initial capital costs at both the Meliadine and Amaruq projects in Nunavut remain unchanged at $900 million and $330 million, respectively.  The forecast for the Company's total 2017 capital expenditures is now approximately $895 million, which is an increase of approximately $36 million over the previous forecast.  The increase is largely due to an acceleration of capital spending at the Meliadine and Amaruq projects due to good progress made in 2017 on development and construction activities at both projects.  The following table sets out capital expenditures (including sustaining capital expenditures) in the third quarter and first nine months of 2017.

 

Revised 2017 Guidance – Production Increased and Costs Lowered for the Sixth Year in a Row

Production for 2017 is now forecasted to exceed 1.68 million ounces of gold (previously 1.62 million ounces) with total cash costs per ounce expected to be $570 to $600 (previously $580 to $610) and AISC expected to be $820 to $870 per ounce (previously $830 to $880).

Dividend Record and Payment Dates for the Fourth Quarter of 2017

Agnico Eagle's Board of Directors has increased the dividend by 10% and has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.11 per common share, payable on December 15, 2017, to shareholders of record as of December 1, 2017.  The previous quarterly dividend was $0.10 per common share.  Agnico Eagle has declared a cash dividend every year since 1983.

Dividend Reinvestment Plan

Please follow the link below for information on the Company's dividend reinvestment plan.  Dividend Reinvestment Plan

Third Quarter 2017 Results Conference Call and Webcast Tomorrow

The Company's senior management will host a conference call on Thursday, October 26, 2017 at 11:00 AM (E.D.T.) to discuss financial results and provide an update of the Company's operating activities.

Via Webcast:

A live audio webcast of the conference call will be available on the Company's website www.agnicoeagle.com.

Via Telephone:

For those preferring to listen by telephone, please dial 1-647-427-7450 or toll-free 1-888-231-8191.  To ensure your participation, please call approximately ten minutes prior to the scheduled start of the call.

Replay Archive:

Please dial 1-416-849-0833 or toll-free 1-855-859-2056, access code 50998337.  The conference call replay will expire on November 26, 2017.  The webcast, along with presentation slides will be archived for 180 days on the Company's website.

NORTHERN BUSINESS REVIEW

ABITIBI REGION, QUEBEC

Agnico Eagle is currently Quebec's largest gold producer with a 100% interest in three mines (LaRonde, Goldex and Lapa) and a 50% interest in the Canadian Malartic mine.  These mines are located within 50 kilometres of each other, which provides operating synergies and allows for the sharing of technical expertise.

LaRonde – Higher than Expected Grades and Tonnage Drive Record Quarterly Gold Production

The 100% owned LaRonde mine in northwestern Quebec achieved commercial production in 1988.

 

Production costs per tonne in the third quarter of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to higher tonnage and the timing of unsold concentrate inventory.  Production costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to higher gold production and the reasons described above.

Minesite costs per tonne⁵ in the third quarter of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to higher tonnage of ore milled.  Total cash costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to higher production and higher by-product metal revenues.

 

 

Production costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to the timing of unsold concentrate inventory.  Production costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to higher production and the reason described above.

Minesite costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 were essentially the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Total cash costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to higher gold production and higher by-product metal revenues.

The record gold production in the third quarter of 2017 was largely a result of higher tonnage and grades being sequenced from the 293 pyramids during the quarter.  This was particularly evident in September, when production totaled 46,100 ounces of gold at a grade of 6.88 g/t gold.  Gold grades for the remainder of the year are expected to return to the previously forecasted 2017 level of approximately 4.77 g/t.

At the LaRonde 3 project, the Company is evaluating the potential to mine below the currently planned 311 level (a depth of 3.1 kilometres).  The current mineral resources in the western portion of the deposit are all in the inferred mineral resource category, extending to the 371 level.

An infill drill program is continuing from the 311 to the 340 levels, with a focus on the western portion of the deposit where recent drilling has continued to encounter higher-grade mineralization (for additional details on this drilling see the Company's news release dated July 26, 2017).  These new high-grade intercepts support the geological model and are expected to result in conversion of inferred mineral resources to indicated mineral resources in the western portion of the LaRonde 3 project in the year-end 2017 mineral resource update.

LaRonde Zone 5 – Initial Production Permit Received; Start-up on Schedule for Early Third Quarter 2018

In 2003, the Company acquired the LaRonde Zone 5 project.  The project lies adjacent to and west of the LaRonde mining complex and previous operators mined the deposit by open pit.  In February 2017, the Company approved LaRonde Zone 5 for development (subject to permitting approval).  The permit to operate at an initial mining rate of 1,900 tonnes-per-day has now been received.

To date, 4.1 kilometres of underground development have been completed and the ramp has reached level 18, which is the first production level.  Work is progressing on the main ventilation network, and underground installation of the paste fill system is expected to begin shortly.

During the quarter, a 7,700 tonne bulk sample of development ore was processed at the Lapa gold circuit (part of the LaRonde mining complex) yielding 515 ounces of gold.  The material was processed to test paste fill blends and ore grinding characteristics.  The revenue from the pre-commercial production was deducted from the capital expenditures of the project.  Commercial production remains on track for early in the third quarter of 2018.  For additional technical details on the project see the Company's news release dated February 15, 2017.

Canadian Malartic Mine – Higher Grades and Mill Throughput Drive Increased Production

In June 2014, Agnico Eagle and Yamana Gold Inc. ("Yamana") acquired all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Osisko Mining Corp. and created the Canadian Malartic General Partnership (the "Partnership").  The Partnership owns the Canadian Malartic mine in northwestern Quebec and operates it through a joint management committee.  Each of Agnico Eagle and Yamana has an indirect 50% ownership interest in the Partnership.  All volume measures in this section reflect the Company's 50% interest in the Canadian Malartic mine, except as noted.

 

Production costs per tonne in the third quarter of 2017 were the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Production costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to higher production.

Minesite costs per tonne in the third quarter of 2017 were essentially the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Total cash costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to higher production.

 

Production costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 were essentially the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Production costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to higher production.

Minesite costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 were essentially the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Total cash costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to higher production.

On April 19, 2017, the Government of Quebec announced the issuance of two decrees authorizing the Partnership to carry out the proposed expansion of the Canadian Malartic mine and the deviation of Highway 117 in Malartic, which will allow the Partnership to access the Barnat deposit.  Deviation plans include a temporary bridge over Highway 117 to minimize the impact of the construction work on local traffic.

During the third quarter of 2017, construction commenced on the temporary bridge, approximately 75-80% of the vegetation has been cleared (mainly over the tailings and waste storage areas) and overburden stripping is underway in two areas.

Road construction is expected to take two years.  The Company's production guidance (see news release dated February 15, 2017) assumes a modest contribution from Barnat in late 2019.

Odyssey and East Malartic Properties – Exploration Programs Ongoing to Increase Mineral Resources and Evaluate Underground Mining Potential

At the Canadian Malartic mine, exploration programs are ongoing to evaluate several near-pit/underground targets and the potential to mine portions of the East Malartic deposit, which is located adjacent to, and east of, the Canadian Malartic mine.  In addition, the Partnership continues to explore the Odyssey project, which is located approximately 1.5 kilometres east of the current limit of the Canadian Malartic open pit.  These opportunities have the potential to provide new sources of ore for the Canadian Malartic mill.

During the third quarter of 2017, 37 holes (totalling 20,704 metres) were drilled at Odyssey with a primary focus on further defining the internal mineralized zones between the Odyssey North and South Zones and expanding and upgrading the mineral resources in Odyssey South.  Drilling carried out to date suggests that these internal zones could increase the mineral resource base and enhance the economics of the project by adding higher grade mineral resources that would require minimal additional infrastructure to access.

An updated mineral resource estimate is expected to be completed by the end of 2017, and the Partnership is evaluating potential underground mining scenarios at both Odyssey and East Malartic.  Permitting activities will start in the fourth quarter of 2017 for potential underground mining scenarios.

Canadian Malartic Corporation

Each of Agnico Eagle and Yamana has an indirect 50% interest in Canadian Malartic Corporation ("CMC") which holds a portfolio of exploration properties that includes properties in the Kirkland Lake area of Ontario and the Pandora property in the Abitibi region of Quebec.

During the third quarter of 2017, CMC completed a review of strategic alternatives for the Kirkland Lake assets.  At this time, the assets remain part of CMC's longer-term development pipeline and additional work will be carried out to further evaluate the potential of these assets.

In the third quarter of 2017, 30 holes (totaling 7,512 metres) were drilled at Kirkland Lake with a primary focus on testing targets on the Upper Beaver and Amalgamated Kirkland properties.  It is expected that an updated mineral resource estimate will be completed on the Upper Canada property at year-end 2017.

Lapa – Mining Expected to Continue Through Year-End 2017 at a Reduced Rate; Mill Processing Expected to Resume in 2018

The 100% owned Lapa mine in northwestern Quebec achieved commercial production in May 2009.

 

Production costs per tonne in the third quarter of 2017 were the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Production costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to higher production.

Minesite costs per tonne in the third quarter of 2017 were the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Total cash costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to higher production.

 

Production costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower throughput levels as the mine approaches the end of its mine life.  Production costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower production.

Minesite costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower throughput levels as the mine nears the end of its mine life.  Total cash costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower production.

Mining operations at Lapa are expected to continue through year-end 2017 at a reduced rate.  The ore mined will be stockpiled in the fourth quarter of 2017 and is expected to be processed during the first half of 2018.  Gold production from Lapa for 2018 (not previously included in the Company's production guidance) is now expected to be approximately 5,000 ounces.

Goldex – Deep 2 and South Zones Show Potential to Extend Current Mine Life

The 100% owned Goldex mine in northwestern Quebec began operation from the M and E satellite zones in September 2013.  The Deep 1 Zone entered commercial production in July 2017.  Production from Deep 1 is expected to extend the Goldex mine life through 2025.

 

Production costs per tonne in the third quarter of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower throughput levels.  Production costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower production.

Minesite costs per tonne in the third quarter of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to the reason described above.  Total cash costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to the reason described above.

 

Production costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period primarily due to lower throughput levels (after deducting pre-commercial production tonnage).  Production costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period primarily due to lower production (after deducting pre-commercial production ounces).

Minesite costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower throughput levels (after deducting pre-commercial production tonnage).  Total cash costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower production (after deducting pre-commercial production ounces).

Commercial production was declared for the Deep 1 Zone effective July 1, 2017.  To date, two stopes have been mined with positive reconciliation to the block model.  Mining activities in the Deep 1 area are expected to continue to ramp up through 2018.  Given the successful start-up of Deep 1 and encouraging exploration results, the Company is evaluating the potential to mine a portion of the Deep 2 Zone, which starts below the Deep 1 Zone at 1,200 metres below surface.

Drilling and development is also ongoing on the South Zone, which is accessible from the Deep 1 Zone infrastructure.  The South Zone consists of quartz veins that have higher grades than those in the primary mineralized zones at Goldex.  The Company is evaluating the potential for the South Zone to provide incremental ore feed to the Goldex mill.

Additional development of drifts will be carried out in the South Zone in the fourth quarter of 2017 along with the collection of a bulk sample.  The first test stopes are expected to be developed in the first half of 2018.

The Company acquired the Akasaba West gold-copper deposit in January 2014.  Located less than 30 kilometres from Goldex, the Akasaba West deposit could create flexibility and synergies for the Company's operations in the Abitibi region by using the extra milling capacity at both Goldex and LaRonde, while reducing overall unit costs.

The Quebec Bureau des Audiences Publiques sur l'Environnement report on the Akasaba project was made public on June 2, 2017.  The report deemed the Akasaba West project acceptable under certain conditions.  Provincial Ministry recommendations are expected in December 2017, and delivery of the decree is expected in January 2018.  Federal Ministry recommendations are expected in February 2018, and delivery of a Federal decree is expected in April 2018.  Given the updated permitting timeline, the Company now expects start-up of the project in 2020, not late 2019 as was previously expected.

NUNAVUT REGION

Agnico Eagle has identified Nunavut as a politically attractive and stable jurisdiction with strong geological potential.  With the Company's largest producing mine (Meadowbank) and two significant development assets (Meliadine and the Amaruq satellite deposit at Meadowbank) and other exploration projects, the Company believes Nunavut has the potential to be a strategic operating platform with the ability to generate strong production and cash flows over several decades.

Meadowbank – Higher Grades Continue to Drive Strong Quarterly Production

The 100% owned Meadowbank mine in Nunavut, northern Canada, achieved commercial production in March 2010.

 

Production costs per tonne in the third quarter of 2017 were essentially the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Production costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to higher production.

Minesite costs per tonne in the third quarter of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower tonnage.  Total cash costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to the reason described above.

 

Production costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to slightly lower throughput and less stripping cost being capitalized.  Production costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to due to higher production.

Minesite costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 were essentially the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Total cash costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to higher production.

Given the positive tonnage and grade reconciliation with the Vault deposit block model, the Company now expects to extend production activities at Meadowbank through year-end 2018.  Additional opportunities are being evaluated in order to further extend production into 2019.  Further information will be provided with the production guidance in February 2018.

Amaruq Satellite Deposit – Drilling Extends Whale Tail Deposit at Depth and Demonstrates Continuity and Improving Grades in the Eastern V Zone

Agnico Eagle has a 100% interest in the Amaruq satellite deposit, approximately 50 kilometres northwest of the Meadowbank mine.  Amaruq is situated on a 116,717-hectare property, almost adjacent to the 77,411-hectare Meadowbank property.

At December 31, 2016, the Amaruq property contained an open pit indicated mineral resource of 2.1 million ounces of gold (16.9 million tonnes grading 3.88 g/t gold); an open pit inferred mineral resource of 763,000 ounces of gold (4.9 million tonnes grading 4.81 g/t gold); and an underground inferred mineral resource of 1.4 million ounces of gold (6.8 million tonnes grading 6.22 g/t gold).

Development of the Amaruq property has been approved by the Company's Board of Directors as a satellite deposit to supply ore to the existing Meadowbank mill, pending the receipt of the required permits.

Agnico Eagle is working closely with the Nunavut Impact Review Board ("NIRB") and the Nunavut Water Board ("NWB") on the Whale Tail joint permitting process.  The final public hearing with NIRB was conducted from September 19 to 22, and the final NWB hearing was conducted from September 26 to 27.  The NIRB final recommendation to the Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada Minister is expected by November 6, 2017.  The Whale Tail pit permitting remains on schedule and permits are expected by the third quarter of 2018.

The Company expects a conventional open pit mining operation to begin on the Whale Tail deposit in the third quarter of 2019.  Other satellite deposits, such as the V Zone, are being evaluated and considered for future development and will require additional permitting.  The planned Whale Tail pit currently extends to a depth of approximately 250 metres and is open for expansion.

For additional technical details on the project see the Company's news releases dated February 15, 2017 and July 26, 2017.

The second phase of the 2017 Amaruq drill program commenced in July and initial results from the program were reported in the Company's news release dated September 5, 2017.  Drilling is targeting extensions of the Whale Tail deposit and V Zone, testing the continuity of the new Tugak structure and determining the source of the gold-bearing boulders discovered in 2014 north of Mammoth Lake.  In the third quarter of 2017, the Company drilled an additional 35,321 metres in 143 drill holes at the Amaruq project.  The total drilling from the start of the year to the end of September is 89,217 metres (453 holes).

Selected recent intercepts from the project are set out in the table below.  The drill hole collars are located on the Amaruq project local geology map; the pierce points are shown on the Amaruq project composite longitudinal section and the drill hole collar coordinates are set out in a table below.  All intercepts reported for the Amaruq project show uncapped and capped grades over estimated true widths, based on a preliminary geological interpretation that is being updated as new information becomes available with further drilling.

Recent exploration drill results from the Whale Tail (WT) deposit, the V Zone and regional targets, Amaruq project

 

Amaruq project exploration drill collar coordinates of selected holes

 

[Amaruq Project Local Geology Map]

[Amaruq Project Composite Longitudinal Section]

[Amaruq Project V Zone Cross Section]

V Zone

The V Zone consists of a series of parallel stacked quartz vein structures striking northeast and dipping to the southeast from near surface to as deep as 610 metres below surface locally.  New intercepts demonstrate that the dip of the V Zone structures steepen with depth, ranging from 30 degrees near surface to 60 degrees at depth as shown by the Amaruq Project V Zone cross section; the steeper orientation of the deep structures would allow for an improved underground mine design.  The V Zone remains open along strike and at depth.

Many of the intercepts reported recently are beneath and southeast of the current V Zone mineral resources.  Infill drilling in this area has demonstrated very good continuity of mineralization and improving grades.  Several recent holes encountered high-grade gold intervals between 300 and 500 metres depth, in the area between the current mineral resources outline and hole AMQ17-1475 (previously reported in the Company's news release dated July 26, 2017) with an intercept at 610 metres depth.  For example, hole AMQ17-1527 returned 18.1 g/t gold over 5.9 metres at 346 metres depth, while hole AMQ17-1517 returned 20.6 g/t gold over 6.2 metres at 452 metres depth and hole AMQ17-1537 returned 8.8 g/t gold over 6.3 metres at 471 metres depth.

Hole AMQ17-1504 encountered two distinct mineralized structures in this area consisting of 5.3 g/t gold over 4.0 metres at 313 metres depth and 5.6 g/t gold over 6.1 metres at 389 metres depth.  Two other nearby holes intersected what appears to be the same two distinct mineralized layers at greater depths: hole AMQ17-1448 (collared 140 metres east of hole -1504) intersected 5.5 g/t gold over 4.8 metres at 447 metres depth and 5.5 g/t gold over 6.5 metres at 492 metres depth, while hole AMQ17-1510 (collared 160 metres southeast of hole -1504) intersected 12.1 g/t gold over 4.2 metres at 402 metres depth and 6.4 g/t gold over 5.3 metres at 508 metres depth.

The current results from the deep area east of V Zone are expected to have a positive effect on the year-end 2017 underground mineral resource estimate for Amaruq.  Follow-up drilling continues in this area, and more results are expected before the end of the year.

Recent drilling appears to show that the I Zone is parallel to, and part of, the lowermost V Zone structures, as shown by intersections at less than 100 metres depth.  The I Zone was discovered in 2013, and outcrops approximately 200 metres northwest of the planned V Zone pit.  Since late 2015, the V Zone has been shown to consist of an increasing number of northeast-striking mineralized structures, and the I Zone is now considered to be another of these structures.

Approximately 500 metres northeast of the planned V Zone pit are two recent intercepts, which may also be related to the I and V Zones.  Hole AMQ17-1450 intersected 31.1 g/t gold over 2.8 metres at 161 metres depth, and nearby hole AMQ17-1460 intersected 10.1 g/t gold over 2.9 metres at 161 metres depth.

Whale Tail

The directional drilling program continues at depth below the proposed Whale Tail pit.  Hole AMQ17-1433E has been drilled to approximately 730 metres depth; this hole identified significant deep mineralization, returning 7.3 g/t gold over 16.1 metres at 627 metres depth, including a high grade zone of 10.6 g/t gold over 8.0 metres.  These intercepts extend the mineralization by approximately 50 metres to the west at this depth.

Almost 300 metres below this long intercept, hole AMQ17-1436B intersected 5.0 g/t gold over 5.3 metres at 915 metres depth; this represents the deepest drill intercept within Whale Tail to date, extending the depth of the deposit by approximately 185 metres (approximately 25%).  To date, the Whale Tail deposit has been defined over at least 2.3 kilometres of strike length and extends from surface to 915 metres depth; it remains open at depth and along strike.

Regional Targets

The Tugak showing, west of Mammoth Lake and approximately 4.5 kilometres west of the planned Whale Tail pit, was discovered in summer 2017 and first reported in the Company's news release dated September 5, 2017.  Drilling on Tugak to date has included 28 holes (5,200 metres).  Recent results include hole AMQ17-1484 that intersected 13.6 g/t gold over 1.2 metres at 141 metres depth.  A follow-up drill program will be carried out on the showing in 2018.

Close to the southern shore of Mammoth Lake is a new showing that may represent the source of the quartz vein, gold- and sulphide-bearing glacial boulders discovered in 2014 on the north side of the lake.  A recent hole drilled in this area, AMQ17-1532, intersected 7.7 g/t gold over 3.5 metres at 145 metres depth.

This showing is located approximately 1.4 kilometres southwest of the planned Whale Tail pit.  The mineralized boulders were found in three boulder trains stretching from 900 to at least 2,800 metres to the northwest, north and northeast of the Mammoth 3 showing.  The significance of this showing will be investigated with further drilling in 2018.

Future Activities

The second phase of 2017 drilling at Amaruq began in July, with a supplemental budget of $4.6 million (18,500 metres) to continue the drilling campaign well into the fourth quarter of this year.  This is the first time drilling is possible year-round at Amaruq due to the completion in August of the 64-kilometre all-weather exploration road.

Drilling will continue until mid-December.  The V Zone is being explored at depth by one drill rig.  Two more rigs are continuing the deep drilling program at Whale Tail in order to confirm and extend the mineralization along strike and at depth, and further demonstrate the potential for underground resources at Amaruq.  Three rigs have begun delineation drilling near surface in the western part of the Whale Tail deposit.

The total initial capital cost of the Amaruq project remains unchanged at $330 million.  Capital spending for 2017 has been accelerated by approximately $24 million (total capital in 2017 at Amaruq is now estimated at approximately $100 million).  The accelerated expenditure will be used to fund the relocation and installation of existing Vault infrastructure from Meadowbank, technical studies and the procurement of additional materials and equipment.  The Amaruq exploration ramp has been permitted and construction of the ramp is expected to begin before year-end 2017.

Two long-haul trucks and trailers to be used for ore transport from Amaruq to the Meadowbank mill have arrived at the Meadowbank site.  These units (from different manufacturers) will undergo immediate testing so that a procurement decision for the rest of the haulage fleet can be made in early 2018.

Amaruq site infrastructure engineering is 40% complete, while mill modification engineering is 36% complete and earthwork engineering is 25% complete.

Meliadine Project – Construction Activities Remain on Schedule and on Budget; Enclosure of Key Buildings Expected in November 2017

Located near Rankin Inlet, Nunavut, Canada, the Meliadine project was acquired in July 2010 and is one of Agnico Eagle's largest gold projects in terms of mineral resources.  The Company owns 100% of the 111,757 hectare property.

In February 2017, the Company's Board of Directors approved the construction of the Meliadine project.  The mine is expected to begin operations in the third quarter of 2019, and the current mine plan will be focused on the Tiriganiaq and nearby Wesmeg-Normeg mineralized zones that will be accessed from the Tiriganiaq underground infrastructure.

At December 31, 2016, the Meliadine property was estimated to hold proven and probable mineral reserves of 3.4 million ounces of gold (14.5 million tonnes grading 7.32 g/t gold), indicated mineral resources of 3.3 million ounces of gold (20.8 million tonnes grading 4.95 g/t gold) and inferred mineral resources of 3.6 million ounces of gold (14.7 million tonnes grading 7.51 g/t gold).  In addition, there are numerous other known gold occurrences along the 80-kilometre-long greenstone belt that require further evaluation.

For additional technical details on the project see the Company's news release dated February 15, 2017.

Update on Meliadine Development Activities in the Third Quarter of 2017

Construction and development activities at the Meliadine project remain on schedule and on budget.  The construction management team is now fully staffed, and at the end of the third quarter of 2017, engineering was approximately 89% complete.

Surface construction activities are progressing well with outside cladding and roofing expected to be completed on the mill facility, multi-service building and powerhouse in November 2017.

Underground development for 2017 is on plan, and critical mining equipment, which was received during the 2017 summer sealift, is currently being commissioned.  During the third quarter, approximately 1,265 metres of underground development was completed.  In the first nine months of 2017, approximately 3,789 metres of development has been completed (a total of approximately 5,600 metres of development is planned for 2017).

The second underground portal is expected to be completed by mid-November 2017, and the ramp to this portal is progressing from underground.  Installation of underground ventilation and heating continues and is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2018.

At the laydown area in Rankin Inlet, installation of the 13.5 million litre fuel tank is complete and the first delivery of fuel occurred in mid-October 2017.  Construction of a second larger fuel tank is well advanced with completion expected in 2018.  The Rankin Inlet bypass road is expected to be completed before the 2018 barge season.

The total initial capital cost of the Meliadine project remains unchanged at $900 million.  Given the construction progress achieved to date, capital spending for 2017 has been accelerated by approximately $12 million.  The total capital budget for 2017 is now approximately $372 million.

The Company believes that there is good potential to create additional value both at the mine and on the large regional land package at Meliadine.  Opportunities currently being evaluated include:

• Optimization of the current mine plan (both the underground plan and advancement of phase 2 pit development)
  
  
• Minesite exploration upside through mineral resource conversion and expansion of known mineralized zones (conversion drill programs are underway on the Wesmeg, Normeg and Tiriganiaq deposits)
  
  
• Testing potential extensions of the mineralization at depth outside the mineral resource model (most mineralized zones are open below a depth of 450 metres)
  
  
• Potential for the discovery of new deposits along the 80-kilometre-long greenstone belt. Regional exploration programs are expected to ramp up once the mine starts production in 2019

FINLAND AND SWEDEN

Agnico Eagle's Kittila mine in Finland is the largest primary gold producer in Europe and hosts the Company's largest mineral reserves.  Exploration activities continue to expand the mineral reserves and mineral resources and the Company is evaluating the potential to cost-effectively increase the production rate.  In Sweden, the Company has a 55% interest in the Barsele exploration project.

Kittila – Drilling confirms Mineral Reserves in Sisar Top and Rimpi Deep areas, Expansion of Sisar Central and Roura Zones

The 100% owned Kittila mine in northern Finland achieved commercial production in 2009.

 

Production costs per tonne in the third quarter of 2017 were essentially the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Production costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower production.

Minesite costs per tonne in the third quarter of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower throughput levels.  Total cash costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to the reason described above.

 

Production costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 were essentially the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Production costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to the timing of inventory.

Minesite costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 were essentially the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Total cash costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to the reason described above.

The main target of exploration at Kittila continues to be the Sisar Zone, which is subparallel to and slightly east of the main Kittila mineralization.  Sisar has been located between approximately 775 metres and 1,910 metres below surface, forming a roughly triangular shape that remains open at depth and along strike to the north and south.  The initial mineral reserves in the Sisar Zone were estimated as of December 31, 2016 as part of the total Kittila mineral reserves estimate.  Exploration results for Kittila were last reported in the Company's news release dated July 26, 2017.

The main exploration ramp to the north is now completed and is being used for testing the extensions of the Roura and Rimpi Zones.  Two internal ramps are being driven southward off the main exploration ramp for converting Sisar Zone and Rimpi deep mineral resources between 800 and 1,000 metres below surface.

In the third quarter of 2017, 17 holes (5,900 metres) were drilled in the Sisar Top and Central Zones; assays are pending for many of the holes.

Selected recent drill results are set out in the table below followed by a table showing the drill hole collar coordinates.  Pierce points for these holes are shown on the Kittila Composite Longitudinal Section.  All intercepts reported for the Kittila mine show uncapped grades over estimated true widths, based on a current geological interpretation that is being updated as new information becomes available with further drilling.

Recent exploration drill results from the Sisar Zone (Roura) and Main Zone and conversion drill results from the Rimpi Deep area at the Kittila mine

 

Kittila mine exploration drill collar coordinates of selected holes 

 

[Kittila - Composite Longitudinal Section]

For the purposes of description, the Sisar Zone has been divided into two depths, referred to as "Sisar Top" (approximately 775 to 1,100 metres below surface) and "Sisar Central" (approximately 1,100 to 1,400 metres below surface).  Some of the Sisar mineralized lenses extend between the Sisar Top and Sisar Central Zones.

Recent intercepts at approximately 1,000 metres below surface have confirmed the mineral reserves and mineral resources in the Sisar Top Zone.  Hole RIE17-612, which intersected 4.2 g/t gold over 11.7 metres at 1,023 metres depth, shows the potential of the as-yet undrilled gap between Roura and Rimpi.

The results of the deep exploration drilling campaign intersected the Sisar Central Zone at close to 1,400 metres depth with encouraging grades over narrow widths.  Hole ROD17-700D intersected 7.2 g/t gold over 1.8 metres at 1,377 metres depth and hole ROD15-705E intersected 4.0 g/t gold over 1.7 metres at 1,390 metres depth.

Deep exploration continues to extend the Roura Main Zone mineralization northward at approximately 1,250 metres depth with several high grade intercepts 10 to 20 metres apart, such as hole ROD17-700D that intersected 9.2 g/t gold over 4.2 metres at 1,246 metres depth.

The underground conversion drilling campaign continues in the Rimpi Deep area, drilling from the exploration ramp.  Two recent holes intersected significant grades and thicknesses between 915 and 970 metres depth, confirming that the Rimpi mineralization has a very thick core and narrower edges.  Hole VUG17-513 intersected 7.0 g/t gold over 6.4 metres at 953 metres depth and 5.7 g/t gold over 21.7 metres at 963 metres depth, while 80 metres to the north, hole VUG17-514 intersected 3.7 g/t gold over 7.2 metres at 917 metres depth and 7.9 g/t gold over 12.6 metres at 918 metres depth.

In 2017, approximately $7.9 million will be spent on deep drilling at Kittila (which includes the Sisar Zone).  The goal of this program is to expand the mineral resources to the north of the current mine plan and demonstrate the economic potential of the Sisar Zone as a new mining horizon at Kittila.

The Company is evaluating increasing throughput rates at Kittila to 2.0 million tonnes per annum (an increase of approximately 25%).  The Company expects that this increased mining rate scenario could be supported by the development of the Rimpi and Sisar Zones.  The Company expects to provide an update on its progress with its 2017 year-end results.

SOUTHERN BUSINESS REVIEW

Agnico Eagle's Southern Business operations are focused in Northern Mexico, with two operations (Pinos Altos and Creston Mascota) in Chihuahua State and the La India mine in Sonora State.  These operations have been the source of increasing precious metals production (gold and silver), stable operating costs and strong free cash flow since Pinos Altos opened in 2009.

Pinos Altos – New Silver Flotation Circuit Nearing Steady State

The 100% owned Pinos Altos mine in northern Mexico achieved commercial production in November 2009. Pinos Altos is an open pit and underground mine that produces gold and silver dore from conventional milling and also a heap leach process.

 

Production costs per tonne in the third quarter of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to the timing of inventory.  Production costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to the reason described above.

Minesite costs per tonne in the third quarter of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower tonnage processed.  Total cash costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower gold production and lower by-product revenues.

 

Production costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period primarily due to higher tonnes processed and timing of inventory.  Production costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 decreased when compared to the prior-year period due to the reasons described above.

Minesite costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 were essentially the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Total cash costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower production.

In late June, a new silver flotation circuit was commissioned at the Pinos Altos mill complex.  The new circuit is nearing steady state production and is expected to result in approximately a 10-12% increase in overall silver recovery.

Work is underway to expand the underground paste fill plant with commissioning expected by year-end 2017.  Detailed engineering is also underway for an expansion of the heap leach facility.

At the Sinter deposit, final permitting activities are underway, and a potential production decision could be announced with the 2017 year-end results.  Elsewhere, additional drilling is planned to further evaluate the underground potential at Cubiro, and surface potential at Reyna de Plata.

Creston Mascota – Drilling Continues to Extend Mineralization at Madrono

The Creston Mascota, open-pit, heap leach mine, has been operating as a satellite operation to the Pinos Altos mine since late 2010.

 

Production costs per tonne in the third quarter of 2017 were essentially the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Production costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower gold production resulting from lower recoveries and higher contractor costs.

Minesite costs per tonne in the third quarter of 2017 were essentially the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Total cash costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower gold production resulting from lower recoveries and higher contractor costs.

 

Production costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to higher contractor costs.  Production costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower gold production resulting from lower recoveries and the reason described above.

Minesite costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to reason described above.  Total cash costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower gold production resulting from lower recoveries and the reason described above.

Exploration drilling in the third quarter of 2017 focused on the Madrono Zone, immediately southeast of the Creston Mascota pit, including 10,240 metres of conversion, step-out and exploration drilling in 65 holes.  Drilling results for Madrono were last reported in the Company's news release dated July 26, 2017.

Selected recent drill results from the Madrono Zone and drill hole collar coordinates are set out in the tables below.  The collars are also located on the Creston Mascota Area Local Geology Map.  All intercepts reported for the Madrono Zone show uncapped and capped gold and silver grades over estimated true widths, based on a preliminary geological interpretation that will be updated as new information becomes available with further drilling.

Recent exploration drill results from the Madrono Zone at the Creston Mascota mine 

 

Madrono Zone at Creston Mascota mine exploration drill collar coordinates

 

[Creston Mascota Area Local Geology Map]

The quartz vein systems at Madrono are nearly vertical.  While the dominant strike of the veins is to the northwest, there is also a set of steep veins that strike almost east-west.  Where these two vein sets intersect, the quartz vein material thickens into steeply plunging shoots including gold and silver.  In addition, the north-west-striking veins host shallowly plunging horizontal shoots of gold-bearing quartz, which are possibly flexures caused by fault movement along uneven vein surfaces.

Current drilling in the Madrono Zone is testing the underground potential of the shallowly plunging shoots.  Recent results are reported from the Madrono and Santa Martha veins.

Testing the east-west Madrono Vein, hole MAD17-091 (drilling to the north) intercepted two mineralized structures between 185 and 245 metres depth; the upper intercept was 3.3 g/t gold and 23 g/t silver over 15.8 metres at 185 metres depth, including 6.8 g/t gold and 55 g/t silver over 4.2 metres.  Approximately 60 metres to the northwest, hole MAD17-096 intersected 2.4 g/t gold and 4.0 g/t silver over 5.8 metres at 224 metres depth.  These two holes lie between intercepts reported in the Company's news release dated July 26, 2017, showing continuity of the Madrono Vein structure at depths between 70 and 245 metres below surface over a strike length of 480 metres.

In the northwest-striking Santa Martha Vein, hole MAD17-098 intersected 4.1 g/t gold and 68 g/t silver over 16.5 metres at 133 metres depth and 1.3 g/t gold and 24 g/t silver over 22.0 metres at 159 metres depth.  Approximately 170 metres to the northwest, hole MAD17-094 (with the same collar position as hole MAD17-091 but drilling to the northeast) had three wide intercepts in the Santa Martha Vein between 176 and 217 metres depth, almost in its junction with the Madrono Vein, including 1.4 g/t gold and 11 g/t silver over 11.3 metres at 176 metres depth.  These intercepts confirm the thicknesses and locally high gold and silver grades in the Santa Martha Vein over a strike length of 800 metres between 100 and 200 metres depth.

The recent Madrono results lie in a former gap between the Madrono and Santa Martha veins, and show the location where the two vein systems intersect; the Madrono Zone continues to be open at depth.

The results of the current drill program have the potential to increase the gold and silver grades of the Madrono Zone and consequently increase the mineral resources at Creston Mascota.

Drilling is also continuing on the Bravo Zone with the goal of increasing and upgrading the mineral resource.  In addition a new access road at Bravo is approximately 75% completed.  This road could ultimately be used for pre-stripping activities on the zone.

La India – Exploration Remains Focused on Expanding Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources Close to Current Mining Areas

The La India, open-pit, heap leach mine, in Sonora, Mexico, located approximately 70 kilometres from the Company's Pinos Altos mine, achieved commercial production in February 2014.

 

Production costs per tonne in the third quarter of 2017 were essentially the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Production costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower gold production, higher contractor costs and the timing of inventory.

Minesite costs per tonne in the third quarter of 2017 were the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Total cash costs per ounce in the third quarter of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower gold production from lower grades, lower by-product revenues and higher contractor costs.

 

Production costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to higher contractor costs to accelerate open pit mine development, higher maintenance costs, higher ore and waste haulage costs as a result of longer trucking distances from the Main Zone pit and timing of inventory.  Production costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower gold production and the reasons described above.

Minesite costs per tonne for the first nine months of 2017 were essentially the same when compared to the prior-year period.  Total cash costs per ounce for the first nine months of 2017 increased when compared to the prior-year period due to lower gold production and by-product revenues.

During the third quarter of 2017, relocation of the overland conveyor and liner installation for an additional heap leach area was completed.  These activities are expected to improve processing efficiency.  In addition, a 3,000-tonne-per-day mobile crusher was installed which will provide an opportunity to treat incremental ore that was previously being stockpiled.

A powerline has been approved for the La India mine, which will also extend power to neighboring communities.  Land negotiation and permitting are in progress with the powerline expected to be in service in 2019.

A second phase of drilling has commenced under the Main Zone to further evaluate the potential to extend mineral reserves and mineral resources below the current pit design.  Drilling is also ongoing at the nearby El Realito, Chipriona, Cerro de Oro and El Cochi zones to evaluate the potential to increase mineral reserves and mineral resources in close proximity to the current mining areas.

Given the increases in mineral reserves and mineral resources in 2016 and promising results from ongoing exploration, the Company continues to evaluate location options to construct additional pad capacity.

El Barqueno – Exploration Focus Remains on Testing Satellite Targets and Extending Known Deposits

Agnico Eagle acquired its 100% interest in the El Barqueno project in November 2014.  The 63,997-hectare property is in the Guachinango gold-silver mining district of Jalisco State in west-central Mexico, approximately 150 kilometres west of the state capital of Guadalajara.  Drilling results for El Barqueno were last reported in the Company's news release dated September 5, 2017.

The El Barqueno project contains a number of known mineralized zones and several prospects.  The project contains 301,100 ounces of gold in indicated mineral resources (8.4 million tonnes grading 1.11 g/t gold) and 362,000 ounces of gold in inferred mineral resources (7.2 million tonnes grading 1.56 g/t gold) as of December 31, 2016.  The indicated mineral resources are in the Azteca-Zapoteca and Pena de Oro zones, while the inferred mineral resources are in these two zones as well as the Angostura Zone, the Olmeca area (Socorro vein) and the El Rayo prospect.

In the third quarter of 2017, approximately 16,800 metres of drilling (55 holes) was completed with a focus on extending known deposits such as Cuauhtemoc and testing other potential satellites such as Tecolote, El Rayo and Camino.  Drilling at Cuauhtemoc has now extended the mineral resources over one kilometre to the west of the Azteca-Zapoteca Zone.

Currently, six rigs are operating on the property, two at El Rayo, one at Cuauhtemoc, one at Pilarica, one at Azteca-Zapoteca and one at Socorro.  In addition, negotiations are continuing to finalize short- and long-term surface rights agreements for key areas for future exploration around the project.

Agnico Eagle believes that El Barqueno ultimately has the potential to be developed into a series of open pits utilizing heap leach and/or mill processing, similar to the Pinos Altos mine.  The Company is evaluating conceptual mine design scenarios and additional metallurgical testing is continuing at El Barqueno.

About Agnico Eagle

Agnico Eagle is a senior Canadian gold mining company that has produced precious metals since 1957.  Its eight mines are located in Canada, Finland and Mexico, with exploration and development activities in each of these countries as well as in the United States and Sweden.  The Company and its shareholders have full exposure to gold prices due to its long-standing policy of no forward gold sales.  Agnico Eagle has declared a cash dividend every year since 1983.

Further Information

For further information regarding Agnico Eagle, contact Investor Relations at info@agnicoeagle.com or call (416) 947-1212.

Note Regarding Certain Measures of Performance

This news release discloses certain measures, including "total cash costs per ounce", "all-in sustaining costs per ounce", "minesite costs per tonne" and "adjusted net income" that are not standardized measures under IFRS.  These data may not be comparable to data reported by other issuers.  For a reconciliation of these measures to the most directly comparable financial information reported in the consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS, other than adjusted net income, see "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Performance Measures" below.

The total cash costs per ounce of gold produced is reported on both a by-product basis (deducting by-product metal revenues from production costs) and co-product basis (without deducting by-product metal revenues).  The total cash costs per ounce of gold produced on a by-product basis is calculated by adjusting production costs as recorded in the consolidated statements of income for by-product revenues, unsold concentrate inventory production costs, smelting, refining and marketing charges and other adjustments, and then dividing by the number of ounces of gold produced.  The total cash costs per ounce of gold produced on a co-product basis is calculated in the same manner as the total cash costs per ounce of gold produced on a by-product basis except that no adjustment is made for by-product metal revenues.  Accordingly, the calculation of total cash costs per ounce of gold produced on a co-product basis does not reflect a reduction in production costs or smelting, refining and marketing charges associated with the production and sale of by-product metals.  The Company believes these generally accepted industry measures provide a realistic indication of operating performance and provide useful comparison points between periods.  The total cash costs per ounce of gold produced is intended to provide information about the cash-generating capabilities of the Company's mining operations.  Management also uses these measures to monitor the performance of the Company's mining operations.  As market prices for gold are quoted on a per ounce basis, using the total cash costs per ounce of gold produced on a by-product basis measure allows management to assess a mine's cash-generating capabilities at various gold prices.

The Company calculates all-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold produced on a by-product basis as the aggregate of total cash costs per ounce on a by-product basis, sustaining capital expenditures (including capitalized exploration), general and administrative expenses (including stock options) and non-cash reclamation provision expense per ounce of gold produced.  All-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold produced on a co-product basis is calculated in the same manner as all-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold produced on a by-product basis, except that the total cash costs per ounce on a co-product basis are used, meaning no adjustment is made for by-product metal revenues.  All-in sustaining costs per ounce is used to show the full cost of gold production from current operations. 

Management is aware that these per ounce measures of performance can be affected by fluctuations in foreign exchange rates and, in the case of total cash costs per ounce of gold produced on a by-product basis and all-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold produced on a by-product, by-product metal prices.  Management compensates for these inherent limitations by using these measures in conjunction with minesite costs per tonne (discussed below) as well as other data prepared in accordance with IFRS.

Minesite costs per tonne are calculated by adjusting production costs as recorded in the consolidated statements of income for unsold concentrate inventory production costs, and then dividing by tonnes of ore processed.  As the total cash costs per ounce of gold produced can be affected by fluctuations in by?product metal prices and foreign exchange rates, management believes that minesite costs per tonne provides additional information regarding the performance of mining operations, eliminating the impact of varying production levels.  Management also uses this measure to determine the economic viability of mining blocks.  As each mining block is evaluated based on the net realizable value of each tonne mined, in order to be economically viable the estimated revenue on a per tonne basis must be in excess of the minesite costs per tonne.  Management is aware that this per tonne measure of performance can be affected by fluctuations in processing levels and compensates for this inherent limitation by using this measure in conjunction with production costs prepared in accordance with IFRS.

Adjusted net income is calculated by adjusting the basic net income per share as recorded in the consolidated statements of income for foreign currency translation gains and losses, mark-to-market adjustments, non-recurring gains and losses and unrealized gains and losses on financial instruments.  Management uses adjusted net income to evaluate the underlying operating performance of the Company and to assist with the planning and forecasting of future operating results.  Management believes that adjusted net income is a useful measure of performance because foreign currency translation gains and losses, mark-to-market adjustments, non-recurring gains and losses and unrealized gains and losses on financial instruments do not reflect the underlying operating performance of the Company and may not be indicative of future operating results.  Management also performs sensitivity analyses in order to quantify the effects of fluctuating foreign exchange rates and metal prices. 

This news release also contains information as to estimated future total cash costs per ounce and all-in sustaining costs per ounce.  The estimates are based upon the total cash costs per ounce and all-in sustaining costs per ounce that the Company expects to incur to mine gold at its mines and projects and, consistent with the reconciliation of these actual costs referred to above, do not include production costs attributable to accretion expense and other asset retirement costs, which will vary over time as each project is developed and mined.  It is therefore not practicable to reconcile these forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable IFRS measure.

Forward-Looking Statements

The information in this news release has been prepared as at October 25, 2017.  Certain statements contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" under the provisions of Canadian provincial securities laws and are referred to herein as "forward-looking statements".  When used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "could", "estimate", "expect", "forecast", "future", "indicate", "plan", "possible", "potential", "will" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements.  Such statements include, without limitation: the Company's forward-looking production guidance, including estimated mineral grades, project timelines, drilling results, metal production, life of mine estimates, total cash costs per ounce, all-in sustaining costs per ounce, other expenses and cash flows; the estimated timing and conclusions of technical reports and other studies; the methods by which ore will be extracted or processed; statements concerning the Company's plans to build operations at Meliadine, Amaruq and LaRonde Zone 5, including the timing and funding thereof; statements concerning other expansion projects, recovery rates, mill throughput, optimization and projected exploration expenditures, including costs and other estimates upon which such projections are based; statements regarding timing and amounts of capital expenditures and other assumptions; estimates of future mineral reserves, mineral resources, mineral production, optimization efforts and sales; estimates of mine life; estimates of future capital expenditures and other cash needs, and expectations as to the funding thereof; statements as to the projected development of certain deposits, including estimates of exploration, development and production and other capital costs and estimates of the timing of such exploration, development and production or decisions with respect to such exploration, development and production; estimates of mineral reserves and mineral resources; statements regarding the Company's ability to obtain the necessary permits and authorizations in connection with its exploration, development and mining operations and the anticipated timing thereof; statements regarding anticipated future exploration; the anticipated timing of events with respect to the Company's mine sites and statements regarding the sufficiency of the Company's cash resources and other statements regarding anticipated trends with respect to the Company's operations, exploration and the funding thereof.  Such statements reflect the Company's views as at the date of this news release and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements.  Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of factors and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by Agnico Eagle as of the date of such statements, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies.  The material factors and assumptions used in the preparation of the forward looking statements contained herein, which may prove to be incorrect, include, but are not limited to, the assumptions set forth herein and in management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A") and the Company's Annual Information Form ("AIF") for the year ended December 31, 2016 filed with Canadian securities regulators and that are included in its Annual Report on Form 40-F for the year ended December 31, 2016 ("Form 40-F") filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") as well as: that there are no significant disruptions affecting operations; that production, permitting, development and expansion at each of Agnico Eagle's properties proceeds on a basis consistent with current expectations and plans; that the relevant metal prices, foreign exchange rates and prices for key mining and construction supplies will be consistent with Agnico Eagle's expectations; that Agnico Eagle's current estimates of mineral reserves, mineral resources, mineral grades and metal recovery are accurate; that there are no material delays in the timing for completion of ongoing growth projects; that the Company's current plans to optimize production are successful; and that there are no material variations in the current tax and regulatory environment.  Many factors, known and unknown, could cause the actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward looking statements.  Such risks include, but are not limited to: the volatility of prices of gold and other metals; uncertainty of mineral reserves, mineral resources, mineral grades and mineral recovery estimates; uncertainty of future production, project development, capital expenditures and other costs; foreign exchange rate fluctuations; financing of additional capital requirements; cost of exploration and development programs; mining risks; community protests; risks associated with foreign operations; the unfavorable outcome of litigation involving the Partnership; governmental and environmental regulation; the volatility of the Company's stock price; and risks associated with the Company's currency, fuel and by-product metal derivative strategies.  For a more detailed discussion of such risks and other factors that may affect the Company's ability to achieve the expectations set forth in the forward-looking statements contained in this news release, see the AIF and MD&A filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and included in the Form 40-F filed on EDGAR at www.sec.gov, as well as the Company's other filings with the Canadian securities regulators and the SEC.  Other than as required by law, the Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements.

Notes to Investors Regarding the Use of Mineral Resources

Cautionary Note to Investors Concerning Estimates of Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources

This news release uses the terms "measured mineral resources" and "indicated mineral resources".  Investors are advised that while those terms are recognized and required by Canadian regulations, the SEC does not recognize them.  Investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of mineral deposits in these categories will ever be converted into mineral reserves.

Cautionary Note to Investors Concerning Estimates of Inferred Mineral Resources

This news release also uses the term "inferred mineral resources".  Investors are advised that while this term is recognized and required by Canadian regulations, the SEC does not recognize it.  "Inferred mineral resources" have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence, and great uncertainty as to their economic and legal feasibility.  It cannot be assumed that all or any part of an inferred mineral resource will ever be upgraded to a higher category.  Under Canadian rules, estimates of inferred mineral resources may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies, except in rare cases.  Investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of an inferred mineral resource exists, or is economically or legally mineable.

Scientific and Technical Data

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release relating to Quebec operations has been approved by Christian Provencher, Eng., Vice-President, Canada; relating to Nunavut operations has been approved by Dominique Girard, Eng., Vice-President, Nunavut Operations; relating to the Finland operations has been approved by Francis Brunet, Eng., Corporate Director Mining; relating to Southern Business operations has been approved by Carol Plummer, Eng., Vice-President, Project Development, Southern Business; and relating to exploration has been approved by Alain Blackburn, Eng., Senior Vice-President, Exploration and Guy Gosselin, Eng. and P.Geo., Vice-President, Exploration.  Each of them is a "Qualified Person" for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101").

Cautionary Note To U.S. Investors - The SEC permits U.S. mining companies, in their filings with the SEC, to disclose only those mineral deposits that a company can economically and legally extract or produce.  Agnico Eagle reports mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates in accordance with the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum Best Practice Guidelines for Exploration and Best Practice Guidelines for Estimation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, in accordance with NI 43-101.  These standards are similar to those used by the SEC's Industry Guide No. 7, as interpreted by Staff at the SEC ("Guide 7").  However, the definitions in NI 43-101 differ in certain respects from those under Guide 7.  Accordingly, mineral reserve information contained herein may not be comparable to similar information disclosed by U.S. companies.  Under the requirements of the SEC, mineralization may not be classified as a "reserve" unless the determination has been made that the mineralization could be economically and legally produced or extracted at the time the reserve determination is made.  A "final" or "bankable" feasibility study is required to meet the requirements to designate mineral reserves under Guide 7.  Agnico Eagle uses certain terms in this news release, such as "measured", "indicated", "inferred" and "resources" that the SEC guidelines strictly prohibit U.S. registered companies from including in their filings with the SEC.

SEC guidelines require the use of prices that reflect current economic conditions at the time of mineral reserve determination, which the Staff of the SEC has interpreted to mean historic three-year average prices.  Given the current commodity price environment, Agnico Eagle has decided to use price assumptions that are below the three-year averages for its estimates of mineral reserves and mineral resources.

The assumptions used for the December 2016 mineral reserves estimate at all longer life mines and advanced projects reported by the Company (other than the Meliadine project, the Canadian Malartic mine and the Upper Beaver project) were $1,150 per ounce gold, $16.50 per ounce silver, $0.95 per pound zinc, $2.15 per pound copper and foreign exchange rates of C$1.20 per $1.00, 16.00 Mexican pesos per $1.00 and $1.15 per €1.00 for all mines and projects other than the Lapa and Meadowbank mines in Canada, and the Creston Mascota mine and Santo Niño pit at the Pinos Altos mine in Mexico.  Due to the shorter remaining mine life for the Lapa and Meadowbank mines, and the Creston Mascota and the Santo Niño pit at the Pinos Altos mine, the foreign exchange rates used were C$1.30 per $1.00 and 16.00 Mexican pesos per $1.00 (other assumptions unchanged).  At the Meliadine project, the same assumptions at December 2015 were used to estimate the December 2016 mineral reserves, which were $1,100 per ounce gold and a foreign exchange rate of C$1.16 per $1.00.

The Partnership which owns and operates the Canadian Malartic mine, and CMC, which owns and manages the Upper Beaver project in Kirkland Lake, (each of which are owned by Agnico Eagle (50%) and Yamana (50%)), have estimated the December 2016 mineral reserves of the Canadian Malartic mine and the Upper Beaver project using the following assumptions: $1,200 per ounce gold; a cut-off grade at the Canadian Malartic mine between 0.33 g/t and 0.37 g/t gold (depending on the deposit); a C$125/tonne net smelter return for the Upper Beaver project; and a foreign exchange rate of C$1.25 per $1.00.

NI 43-101 requires mining companies to disclose mineral reserves and mineral resources using the subcategories of "proven mineral reserves", "probable mineral reserves", "measured mineral resources", "indicated mineral resources" and "inferred mineral resources".  Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

A mineral reserve is the economically mineable part of a measured and/or indicated mineral resource.  It includes diluting materials and allowances for losses, which may occur when the material is mined or extracted and is defined by studies at pre-feasibility or feasibility level as appropriate that include application of modifying factors.  Such studies demonstrate that, at the time of reporting, extraction could reasonably be justified.  The mineral reserves presented in this news release are separate from and not a portion of the mineral resources.

Modifying factors are considerations used to convert mineral resources to mineral reserves.  These include, but are not restricted to, mining, processing, metallurgical, infrastructure, economic, marketing, legal, environmental, social and governmental factors.

A proven mineral reserve is the economically mineable part of a measured mineral resource.  A proven mineral reserve implies a high degree of confidence in the modifying factors.  A probable mineral reserve is the economically mineable part of an indicated and, in some circumstances, a measured mineral resource.  The confidence in the modifying factors applying to a probable mineral reserve is lower than that applying to a proven mineral reserve.

A mineral resource is a concentration or occurrence of solid material of economic interest in or on the Earth's crust in such form, grade or quality and quantity that there are reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction.  The location, quantity, grade or quality, continuity and other geological characteristics of a mineral resource are known, estimated or interpreted from specific geological evidence and knowledge, including sampling.

A measured mineral resource is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical characteristics are estimated with confidence sufficient to allow the application of modifying factors to support detailed mine planning and final evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit.  Geological evidence is derived from detailed and reliable exploration, sampling and testing and is sufficient to confirm geological and grade or quality continuity between points of observation.  An indicated mineral resource is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical characteristics are estimated with sufficient confidence to allow the application of modifying factors in sufficient detail to support mine planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit.  Geological evidence is derived from adequately detailed and reliable exploration, sampling and testing and is sufficient to assume geological and grade or quality continuity between points of observation.  An inferred mineral resource is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality are estimated on the basis of limited geological evidence and sampling.  Geological evidence is sufficient to imply but not verify geological and grade or quality continuity.

Investors are cautioned not to assume that part or all of an inferred mineral resource exists, or is economically or legally mineable.

A feasibility study is a comprehensive technical and economic study of the selected development option for a mineral project that includes appropriately detailed assessments of applicable modifying factors, together with any other relevant operational factors and detailed financial analysis that are necessary to demonstrate, at the time of reporting, that extraction is reasonably justified (economically mineable).  The results of the study may reasonably serve as the basis for a final decision by a proponent or financial institution to proceed with, or finance, the development of the project.  The confidence level of the study will be higher than that of a pre-feasibility study.

Additional Information

Additional information about each of the mineral projects that is required by NI 43-101, sections 3.2 and 3.3 and paragraphs 3.4(a), (c) and (d) can be found in Technical Reports, which may be found at www.sedar.com.  Other important operating information can be found in the Company's AIF, MD&A and Form 40-F.