It has become a staple of every Canadian’s pocket change, but few collectors know the full story behind the creation of Canada’s $2 circulation coin – the toonie. As the coin marks a major milestone this year, Canadian Coin News takes readers back three decades to when the first plans for the toonie began to take shape.
What started as a government effort to save taxpayers millions quickly grew into one of the most recognizable coins in the country. From design competitions to political debates, the journey to the toonie’s 1996 launch was filled with fascinating moments that are only now being fully explored.
Our latest issue uncovers rarely told details about the coin’s early development, including unique test pieces, international involvement, and how a small Ontario town cemented its place in Canadian numismatic history with a massive tribute to the polar bear design.
Learn why certain toonies from the coin’s first year of issue remain highly sought after by collectors today. To read the full story and discover more about this Canadian icon’s surprising beginnings, subscribe to Canadian Coin News—your source for in-depth numismatic features and market trends.

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The toonie’s 30th anniversary is a great opportunity to explore its fascinating history and origins. Many details about its design and significance can be uncovered through resources like https://coin-identifier.com/ .