Description

Theme

They headed north to Canada, lured by the promise of land and guided by the hope of a better life free from racial violence. Arriving in Amber Valley (formerly Pine Creek), Alberta, the Black settlers worked hard to establish a thriving community, some 300 people strong, blazing a trail as they went and building a rich legacy through their achievements.

The 2024 Commemorating Black History coin brings to life an often-overlooked story from Canada’s immigration history. Its finely engraved reverse captures the spirit of Amber Valley—one of the largest Black settlements in western Canada during the early 20th century—and honours the Black pioneers who persevered through hardships and hostility, facing down discrimination and building up a foundation for future generations.

Design

Designed by Canadian artist Valentine De Landro, your coin’s reverse highlights the rich history of Amber Valley, one of the largest all-Black settlements in western Canada in the early 20th century. The design is centred on a family portrait that represents the spiritual heart of the story: the Black homesteaders who founded Amber Valley (formerly Pine Creek) in 1909 and built a thriving community. Enhanced with flourishes inspired by ads promoting western settlement, the map outline of the province of Alberta provides geographical context, while beneath the settlers, the buildings form an artistic representation of Amber Valley. Along the bottom of the coin design is a depiction of a wagon train making its way across the rugged terrain of northern Alberta—a representation of the settlers’ pioneering spirit and resilience, and of their long journey north. The obverse features a maple leaf pattern and 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.

Special features

• Commemorating Black history. This is the sixth coin in our annual Commemorating Black History series, which honours the enormous contributions that Black Canadians have made—and continue to make—to Canada’s story. It is a celebration of resilience, innovation and determination.
• Celebrating the spirit of Amber Valley. Crafted in 1 oz. of 99.99% pure silver, this coin pays tribute to the community of Amber Valley, one of the largest all-Black settlements in western Canada in the early 20th century.
• An important story. This is the first time Amber Valley has been highlighted on a Mint coin, and its reverse design combines different engraved images to create a compelling snapshot in time and a glimpse of Amber Valley’s past.
• Low mintage. Only 5,500 coins are available to collectors worldwide.
• Includes serialized certificate. The Royal Canadian Mint certifies all of its collector coins.
• No GST/HST.

Product Specifications

• Mintage 5,500
• Composition 99.99% pure silver
• Weight 31.39 g
• Diameter 38 mm
• Edge Serrated
• Face Value $20
• Finish Proof

Packaging

Your coin is encapsulated and presented in a black Royal Canadian Mint-branded clamshell with a black beauty box.