Beyond circulation and collector coins, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is also the focus of many numismatic “fringe” pieces issued in Canada since the “Mounties” were formed in 1873 as the North-West Mounted Police. A century later, the RCMP’s 100th anniversary was widely commemorated on municipal trade tokens, medals and so-called “challenge coins,” the latter of which hold a special place in one collector’s heart. “I didn’t know what they were a few years ago, but now I’m hooked on them,” said retired teacher and long-time numismatist Chris Boyer, who added challenge coins “aren’t technically coins,” which are issued by a government and assigned a denomination for use in trade and commerce. Continue reading →
A Royal Canadian Mounted Police challenge coin issued for British Columbia’s 'E' Division tactical team depicts a crossed sword and rifle plus a space for the receiving officer’s five-digit regimental number.
