The Royal Canadian Mint has issued a new $2 commemorative circulation coin, inviting people across Canada to celebrate Inuit Nunangat and discover the unique culture and traditions that flourish in this northern homeland.
For the first time on a Canadian circulation coin, four artists representing the four regions of Inuit Nunangat have collaborated to design the reverse, showcasing Inuit unity through a shared depiction of the legend of Nuliajuk, the spirit of the sea. Each artist’s home within Inuit Nunangat is symbolized by an ulu, a traditional Inuit knife, placed on the outer ring of the coin.
The coin is now in circulation and marks a powerful step in cultural representation and collaboration.
“Nuliajuk’s story is one of the most significant in Inuit culture, and we are thrilled that she is now honored in Canadian currency, reflecting her deep-rooted presence in our hearts and imaginations,” said Natan Obed, president of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami. He also praised the artists—Mary Okheena, Charlotte Karetak, Thomassie Mangiok, and Tegan Voisey—and acknowledged the respectful partnership with the Mint in bringing this project to fruition.
Chrystia Freeland, deputy prime minister and minister of finance, also commended the initiative, stating, “Walking the path of reconciliation includes honoring the rich cultural contributions of Indigenous Peoples. Inuit have called the North home for time immemorial, and it is fitting that the toonie—long associated with the Arctic through its iconic polar bear—now celebrates the vibrant Inuit culture and the way of life in Inuit Nunangat.”
A total of three million of these commemorative $2 coins have been minted, with two million featuring coloured designs.
The artwork on the 2024 $2 coin features the spirit Nuliajuk at its core, dressed in a traditional atigi (parka), surrounded by images of Arctic wildlife: a walrus, two beluga whales, a seal, and an Arctic char. Four unique interpretations of the ulu, representing the traditional styles of each region, are depicted on the right side of the outer ring, symbolizing the distinct artistic voices of each contributor. The inscription “Inuit Nunangat” appears on the left. The obverse side of the coin displays the effigy of King Charles III, created by Canadian artist Steven Rosati.
“We are grateful to have worked alongside Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and these talented Inuit artists to honor Inuit Nunangat on this new circulation coin,” said Marie Lemay, the RCM’s president and CEO. “Engaging with communities to tell their stories is central to the Mint’s mission, and we are delighted to share Inuit stories nationwide through this meaningful celebration of Inuit Nunangat.”
A total of three million of these commemorative $2 coins have been minted, with two million featuring colored designs. Canadians will encounter these coins in their change as bank branches and businesses replenish their coin inventories. For collectors, both the colored and uncolored versions are available in special wrap rolls containing 25 uncirculated coins, limited to 15,000 rolls of the colored coins and 10,000 rolls of the uncolored coins, each retailing or $79.95 per roll.
For additional details on the design and cultural significance of Inuit Nunangat, visit www.mint.ca/IN.