About the National Indigenous Peoples Day Commemorative $2 Circulation Coin

In celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day, the coin’s reverse combines the art of Megan Currie, English River First Nation, Myrna Pokiak (Agnaviak), Inuvialuit Settlement Region and Jennine Krauchi, Red River Métis. The rich expressions of cultures,  traditions, and heritages that make up the design are drawn from a variety of inspirational sources, each unique to the artist. The artists have each shared their sources of inspiration, their connection to National Indigenous Peoples Day, and their objective for the design:

NIPD is a time for both reflection and celebration. A day to honour those who have come before us and acknowledge there is hope for those who will come after. NIPD takes place during the summer solstice, the day of the year that Grandfather Sun provides us with the longest light. It symbolizes a new season of life, a chance to start fresh and leave past burdens behind. My design is a visual reflection of these thoughts.
- Megan Currie (English River First Nation – Artist and Creative Director of X-ing Design)

My ancestors modeled perseverance, my girls gifted me with pride, and I celebrate cultural identity on Indigenous day under the Midnight Sun. I treasure my memories living on Inuvialuit land and sea through seasonal changes and challenges. My cultural experiences have inspired my art, illustrating the honor and responsibility I hold upon myself to make our ancestors proud, while achieving dreams (like having my art on a circulation Toonie) that make my heart dance, as many will do on Indigenous day.
- Myrna Pokiak (Agnaviak; Inuvialuk from Tuktoyaktuk in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region)

Our roots run deep in this land.  We have fought hard for our rights as a mixed people and we celebrate our culture with great pride.

The Métis symbols used on this coin are images that we; the Métis, have come to identify with and these are unique to our distinct culture.  The sash, the wheel of a Red River cart, the Infinite flag and the five-petalled flower or Wild Rose. 

We celebrate our heritage as ancestors of the First Peoples and the Europeans. On National Indigenous Peoples Day we hope that all peoples will celebrate with us.
- Jennine Krauchi (Red River Métis)

The obverse features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt. The obverse also bears a special marking that includes four pearls symbolizing the four effigies that have graced Canadian coins and the double date of her reign.