The Royal Canadian Mint is doing its part to raise money for the Alberta Fires Appeal, which was launched by Red Cross earlier this month to assist Fort McMurray in recovering from a massive wildfire that caused a state of emergency to be declared throughout this month.
A total of $5 from every purchase of the recently issued “Firefighters” coin – the first of the Mint’s four-coin National Heroes series – will be donated to Red Cross to help with the nearly 525,000-hectare wildfire.
“As you know, we made an up-front, initial cash donation of $10,000,” said Alex Reeves, media relations manager for the Mint. “We will only announce the total raised after we have finished selling this coin.”
Designed by Canadian artist Ken Ryan, the Firefighters coin uses selective colour over engraving to create a timeless portrait of a firefighter in the line of duty. In the engraved background, flames and smoke pour out of a residential home as the firefighter emerges in the foreground; he is depicted in full turnout gear, including a red helmet with visor and a tan-coloured jacket with reflective yellow-green and silver trim. Beneath the visor, the firefighter’s self-contained breathing apparatus is visible—this protects him from the dangers of exposure and smoke inhalation in a fiery environment. In his right hand, the firefighter holds a pike pole, used to pull apart debris. His left hand cradles a dog that he has rescued from inside the home and is carrying to safety.
To donate to the Alberta Fires Emergency Appeal, click here.
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
Dr. Xianyao Li, chief technology officer of the Royal Canadian Mint, at the Mint Directors Conference earlier this month.
At the recent Mint Directors Conference, held in Bangkok, Thailand earlier this month, the Royal Canadian Mint earned some well-deserved recognition.
This $25 coin was named ‘most technologically advanced silver commemorative’ at the recent Mint Directors Conference.
The Mint received the award for the “most technologically advanced silver commemorative coin” for its $25 Proof silver concave coin celebrating the 140th anniversary of the Library of Parliament. The Mint was also honored with two awards in the competition for best packaging: one for the “most creative innovative and unique packaging” and another for the “best national set” conveying the identity of the issuing nation.