Canada Unveils New $2 Remembrance Day Coin Honoring Fallen Heroes

Canada has introduced a new $2 circulation coin to commemorate Remembrance Day, marking the 25th anniversary of the repatriation of the Unknown Soldier. The Royal Canadian Mint officially unveiled the coin on November 5, 2023, during a ceremony attended by military and government officials in Ottawa. This commemorative coin aims to honor the sacrifices of over 120,000 Canadians who lost their lives in the pursuit of peace and freedom.

Minister of Veterans Affairs Jill McKnight emphasized the significance of the coin, stating, “The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier stands as a powerful symbol of the more than 120,000 Canadians who gave their lives for peace and freedom. This coin not only marks the 25th anniversary of the entombment, it helps preserve the proud legacy of our fallen heroes and ensures their sacrifice is never forgotten.”

Commemoration of the Unknown Soldier

In May 2000, the remains of the Unknown Soldier were returned to Canada from a First World War military cemetery near Vimy, France. Upon arrival, the casket was displayed in the Hall of Honour in Parliament’s Centre Block for three days, allowing thousands of Canadians to pay their respects. On May 28, 2000, the Unknown Soldier was entombed with full military honors in a granite-and-bronze sarcophagus at Canada’s National War Memorial.

Marie Lemay, president and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint, expressed hopes that the new coin would inspire Canadians. “We hope that Canadians who find these coins in their change will be inspired to reflect on the courage and commitment of all those who made the ultimate sacrifice, or placed nation above self in defense of Canada,” she noted.

Design and Availability of the Coin

The $2 coin, designed by Canadian artist Mary-Ann Liu, features a detailed representation of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier positioned in front of the National War Memorial in Ottawa. Behind the tomb are silhouettes of four sentries symbolizing all Canadians who have served or are currently serving in the military. A special colored version of the coin includes a striking red poppy, while the obverse showcases the effigy of King Charles III, created by Canadian artist Steven Rosati.

The Royal Canadian Mint has limited the mintage of this commemorative coin to three million, including two million colored versions. As of November 5, Canadians can expect to find this coin in their change as financial institutions and businesses begin to circulate it. For those eager to add this piece to their collection, both colored and uncolored versions are available for purchase on the Mint’s official website.

The introduction of this coin serves as a poignant reminder of Canada’s military history and the enduring legacy of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.