Canada has unveiled a new design for the toonie.
The Royal Canadian Mint has just released a new $2 circulation coin to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). The toonie, unveiled during a ceremony at the Canadian Forces Base in Winnipeg on Wednesday, features aircraft that have played pivotal roles in the RCAF’s century-long history.
“On the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force, we honour generations of Air Force members who have dedicated their lives to defending our country and freedom,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland in a statement.
Designed by Canadian illustrator Pui Yan Fung, the reverse side of the coin showcases stylized images of aircraft flown by RCAF personnel, both past and present. The coin’s inner core features the RCAF roundel above a CC-130 Hercules, a transport aircraft in service for over 60 years. The upward angle of the Hercules reflects the RCAF motto, Sic itur ad astra (“Such is the pathway to the stars”).
The dates “1924 2024” appear beneath the Hercules, while eight additional RCAF aircraft are depicted around the outer ring. From top to bottom on the left: the Finch Mk. II, CSR-123 Otter, F-86 Sabre Mk. 6, and CF-100 Canuck Mk. 5; and on the right: the CT-114 Tutor, CC-115 Buffalo, CF-188 Hornet, and CH-146 Griffon helicopter.
On the obverse, the coin features an effigy of King Charles III, designed by Steven Rosati.
Marie Lemay, president and CEO of the Mint, noted that the special coin was produced in Winnipeg, which is home to the Mint’s circulation production facility and one of Canada’s first air force bases.
