On today’s date in 1906, the prairie crocus (Anemone patens) was named the floral emblem of Manitoba.
A cluster of the prairie windflowers is featured on a 99.99 per cent proof gold coin issued by the Royal Canadian Mint in 2010. It was the 13th issue from the ongoing “Provincial Flowers” series, which began in 1998.
Designed by Celia Godkin, the coin’s design features the all-Canadian flower ready to soak up the springtime sun.
This coin has a face value of $350, a weight of 35 grams, a diameter of 34 millimetres and a mintage of 1,400 pieces.
The prairie crocus is also featured in a medal set produced by Shell Canada throughout the 1960s.
COMMEMORATIVE MEDAL
The prairie crocus was also featured in a Shell Canada commemorative medal set from the mid-1960s celebrating Canada’s provincial flowers and coats of arms.
The medals were given as promotions with gasoline purchases (one per purchase) until about 1968; however, they were also available as late as 1973 in the Eaton’s Christmas catalogue.
The Manitoba token depicts a prairie crocus on the obverse with the identification spelled in French below. A buffalo is depicted on the reverse.
COMMEMORATIVE DOLLAR
The prairie crocus is celebrated on a 1970 dollar marking the 100th anniversary of Manitoba’s accession.
In 1970, for the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the accession of Manitoba, the prairie crocus was also featured on a Canadian dollar.
Designed by Raymond Taylor, the coin weighs 15.62 grams with a diameter of 32.13 millimetres and a thickness of 2.62 millimetres.
The coin also features the designer’s initials “RT” in the middle of the design below the stem of the centre flower. The word “MANITOBA” and the dates “1870-1970” also appear along the top of the coin, with the word “CANADA” and denomination “DOLLAR” on the bottom.