2019-06-18 Tue

The Royal Canadian Mint issued a new silver collector coin to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Official Languages Act which gives an equal status of English and French in Canada. A special striking ceremony was organised on 12th June at the Mint's Ottawa facility. Several important delegates from La Francophonie, Royal Canadian Mint and other esteemed government officials were present at the event.

The reverse side of the coin features the dual dates 1969-2019 to mark the 50th anniversary. Other elements include maple leaves, and the words “WITH GLOWING HEARTS”, “DES PLUS BRILLIANTS EXPLOITS” in bright red colour. The laser-engraved background features concentric maple leaves, with the smallest one at the centre. “50 years of the Official Languages Act” is inscribed in French as well as English. Micro-engraving technique is used to include the complete lyrics of Canada’s national anthem on the coin’s rim. The obverse side depicts an effigy of Queen Elizabeth II. The reverse design is created by Joel Kimmel, while the obverse design is created by Susanna Blunt. The coin has a mintage limit of 15,000 pieces and will be sold for $49.95 CAD each from September.

Even today, Canadians sing O Canada in English and French. The Act was introduced for building a united society where Anglophones and Francophones live together in harmony by accepting Canadian values. The new coin celebrates Canada’s linguistic duality. The Official Languages Act recognizes the language rights of Canadians and is a symbol of openness, empathy, and respect.

Image Courtesy: Royal Canadian Mint