New toonie celebrates the rich culture of the Inuit

The $2 coin, called Inuit Nunangat — which means Inuit homeland — is to show Canadians about the ways of life and vital culture of the Inuit.

The Canadian Mint is highlighting the rich culture of the Inuit with a special commemorative toonie.

The $2 coin, called Inuit Nunangat — which means Inuit homeland — is meant to teach Canadians about the vital culture and ways of life of the Inuit.

Four artists designed the coin: Tegan Voisey (Makkovik, Nunatsiavut), Thomassie Mangiok (Ivujivik, Nunavik), Charlotte Karetak (Arviat, Nunavut) and Mary Okheena (Ulukhaktok, Inuvialuit Settlement Region).

The coin design features Nuliajuk, a spirit of the sea whose ancient story is a common tale in the Inuit culture.

Clockwise from Nuliajuk are a walrus, two beluga whales, a seal and an Arctic char.

On the right of the outer ring, there are images of uluit (knives), traditional shapes which represent each of the artists’ homes within the Inuit homeland.

The Royal Canadian Mint is releasing the new $2 commemorative circulation coin as an invitation to all people living in Canada to celebrate Inuit Nunangat.

With approximately 70,000 Inuit in Canada, the homeland is predominantly in four regions: Nunatsiavut, Nunavik, Nunavut, and the Inuvialiut Settlement Region.

“Walking the path of reconciliation includes honouring the rich cultural contributions of Indigenous Peoples,” Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Chrystia Freeland said in a news release. “Inuit have called the North home for time immemorial, and it is fitting that the toonie — whose iconic polar bear has long spotlighted the Arctic — will now share the vibrant Inuit culture and distinct ways of life in Inuit Nunangat with all Canadians.”

“Collaborating with the communities to tell their story is how we at the Royal Canadian Mint seek to engage all people living in Canada, and we are pleased to share Inuit stories far and wide by celebrating Inuit Nunangat in this way,” Marie Lemay, president and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint, said in the release.

A total of three million coins will be made and circulated starting Nov. 7, with two million coins being coloured.

It will reach Canadians through their change as bank branches and businesses replenish their inventories of $2 coins, the Royal Canadian Mint said.

Special wrap rolls are also available in 15,000 coloured and 10,000 uncoloured limited-edition of 25 uncirculated coins each, retailing for $79.95. They can be ordered by calling 1-800-267-1871 in Canada, 1-800-268-6468 in the United States, or online at mint.ca.