Canada’s Two-dollar Circulation Coin Turns 30

OTTAWA, ON – February 19, 2026 — Thirty years ago, Canadians were introduced to a new two-dollar circulation coin that replaced banknotes of the same value. Following the successful transition to a one-dollar circulation coin in 1987, Canadians quickly warmed up to their new bi-metallic, polar bear-themed coin which they soon nicknamed the “Toonie”. Since February 19, 1996, over one billion Toonies, featuring an iconic polar bear reverse (or tails) design, as well as a multitude of commemorative versions, have circulated from coast to coast to coast.

“Over the last three decades, our two-dollar circulation coin has been a pillar of Canadian trade and commerce and given the Mint many opportunities to share meaningful stories of Canada through special commemorative designs,” said Simon Kamel, Interim President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint.  “Today, we are wishing the Toonie a happy 30^th birthday, and we are looking forward to many more years of service.”

In 1996, the two-dollar coin became Canada’s first bi-metallic coin, with the inner core and outer rim solidly bonded by a locking system. The coin’s centre continues to feature the iconic polar bear design created by Canadian artist Brent Townsend.  Its obverse featured the effigy of the late Queen Elizabeth until 2022, which last appeared on a commemorative version distinguished by a black nickel outer ring, echoing the loss felt by millions of Canadians upon the passing of their queen.  Since 2023, the obverse features the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III, designed by Canadian artist Steven Rosati.

Originally consisting of a copper alloy and a pure nickel outer ring, the Mint modernized Canada’s highest-value circulation coin by changing its composition to multi-ply plated steel in 2012.  Advanced security features were also added to its surface.

In celebration of this new milestone, the Mint has issued a Collector’s Edition Non-Circulation Special Wrap Roll, limited to a mintage of 30,000 rolls, each retailing for $89.95 CAD.  This collectible may be ordered by contacting the Mint at 1-800-267‑1871 in Canada, 1-800-268‑6468 in the US, or at www.mint.ca. It is also available at the Royal Canadian Mint's boutiques in Ottawa and Winnipeg, at participating Canada Post outlets, and through the Mint’s global network of dealers and distributors.

Images of the 30^th anniversary special wrap roll are available here.

About the Royal Canadian Mint

The Royal Canadian Mint is the Crown corporation responsible for the minting and distribution of Canada’s circulation coins. The Mint is one of the largest and most versatile mints in the world, producing award-winning collector coins, market-leading bullion products, as well as Canada’s prestigious military and civilian honours. As an established London and COMEX Good Delivery refiner, the Mint also offers a full spectrum of best-in-class gold and silver refining services. As an organization that strives to take better care of the environment, to cultivate safe and inclusive workplaces and to make a positive impact on the communities where it operates, the Mint integrates environmental, social and governance practices in every aspect of its operations. 

For more information on the Mint, its products and services, visit www.mint.ca. Follow the Mint on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

For more information, media are asked to contact:

Alex Reeves
Senior Manager, Public Affairs
Royal Canadian Mint
Telephone: 613-884-6370
reeves@mint.ca