The Royal Canadian Mint has unveiled a new $2 commemorative circulation coin honoring Inuit Nunangat, inviting Canadians to celebrate the culture, traditions, and homeland of the Inuit people. Featuring a first-of-its-kind collaborative design by four Inuit artists, the coin marks a milestone in Canadian currency.
The coin’s reverse features Nuliajuk, the spirit of the sea in Inuit mythology, surrounded by Arctic wildlife, including a walrus, beluga whales, a seal, and an Arctic char. Four uluit—traditional Inuit knives—represent each artist’s region within Inuit Nunangat and act as their signatures. The artists, Tegan Voisey (Nunatsiavut), Thomassie Mangiok (Nunavik), Charlotte Karetak (Nunavut), and Mary Okheena (Inuvialuit Settlement Region), collaborated to reflect Inuit unity and tradition.
“This coin celebrates Nuliajuk, a figure deeply rooted in Inuit culture, and shares her story with all Canadians,” said Natan Obed, President of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami. “It represents the respect and creativity with which this project was approached by the Royal Canadian Mint and the talented artists involved.”
Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland praised the initiative, noting that the coin builds on the iconic polar bear design traditionally associated with the Arctic. “It is fitting that this toonie will now showcase the vibrant culture and way of life in Inuit Nunangat,” she said.
The coin’s obverse features the effigy of King Charles III, designed by Canadian artist Steven Rosati, marking one of the first uses of this portrait on Canadian currency.
With a mintage of three million coins, including two million with colored details, the $2 coins began circulating on November 7. Canadians will encounter them through regular transactions as bank branches and businesses replenish their inventories.
Collectors can purchase special-edition rolls of 25 uncirculated coins through the Mint’s website and retail partners, priced at $79.95 CAD.
Marie Lemay, President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint, highlighted the importance of collaboration with Inuit communities. “Through this coin, we are proud to share Inuit stories and honor their profound contributions to Canada’s culture and history,” she said.
Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, the national organization representing Canada’s 70,000 Inuit across four regions, welcomed the initiative as a meaningful gesture of respect and recognition. Inuit Nunangat, which spans over 40 percent of Canada’s land area and 72 percent of its coastline, is central to the Inuit way of life and history.
The new coin not only commemorates Inuit culture but also encourages Canadians to learn more about the stories and traditions of Inuit Nunangat. More details about the coin’s design and meaning are available at the Royal Canadian Mint’s website, mint.ca/IN.
Photos: Royal Canadian Mint
