Coinage fit for a king

Garden City

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 13/12/2023 (676 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

In 2023 we witnessed significant historical transitions and transformations for Canada and nations of the Commonwealth. After the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, this year saw the formal coronation of King Charles II with celebrations and a renewal of portraits and royal icons that had not changed in over 70 years.

Here in Canada, the ‘heads’ side of our coins depict the reigning monarch and millions of Canadians have never seen coins without the late Queen’s portrait. In November, the official change to King Charles’ portrait took place here at the Royal Canadian Mint in Winnipeg.

I was honoured to be asked to attend the official unveiling of this new effigy (the official term for a coin portrait) and to witness the very first coins struck with the likeness of King Charles II. While many other Commonwealth countries use the effigy produced by the United Kingdom, Canada has a long-standing tradition of creating its own, designed by Canadian artists.

The new effigy of King Charles II was designed by Montreal-based artist Steven Rosati, who was delighted to be in Winnipeg to share his winning design. Not only did he have to impress the folks at the Royal Canadian Mint, his design had to receive approval from the federal government before being sent to Buckingham Palace for final approval. Talk about a bit of pressure!

New coins with King Charles’ likeness will soon begin appearing in your pocket change as coins are naturally replaced as part of their life-cycle. Eager collectors and enthusiast, however, can visit the Mint on Dec. 14 for a free coin-exchange event. The New King Charles Coin Exchange at the Royal Canadian Mint (520 Lagimodière Blvd.) will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is a great opportunity to collect a piece of history or create a keepsake gift.

The Mint in Winnipeg is a treasure of coin-engineers and a reminder of the incredible impact our city has far beyond our borders. When I attended the unveiling of the new effigy, I was reminded how fascinating and meticulous the coin-production process is. Hats off to all the dedicated workers at the Mint for continuing to put Winnipeg on the world stage. Well done!