Description

Theme

For half a century, it was known to outsiders for its good food and great music, but to its residents, Hogan’s Alley represented community, a place where entrepreneurial spirit and civil activism were woven into the fabric of life.

Vancouver’s first Black community, Hogan’s Alley flourished in the early 20th century when it was home to many Black porters who, through their unions, would later fight to gain recognition for Black Canadians within the labour movement. Women also played a central role in this community, many emerging as prominent organizers and entrepreneurs, operating restaurants and speakeasies that became not only local favourites, but cultural institutions that cemented the area’s reputation as a vibrant hub. Sadly, the community was lost in the 1960s when despite protests and resistance, the city began levelling it in the name of urban renewal—a devastating blow to its residents. The displacement and erasure of the Black community in Hogan’s Alley have had long-lasting effects.

Design

The reverse design by Canadian artist Kwame Delfish represents the spirit of Hogan’s Alley, Vancouver’s first Black community and a once-thriving cultural hub during the 20th century. While British Columbia’s provincial flower, the Pacific Dogwood (Cornus nuttallii), lies at the centre, the surrounding images reflect the character and vibrancy of the neighbourhood (starting at the one o’clock position and moving clockwise): a cook at one of the women-owned chicken house restaurants; a Black railway sleeping car porter; a choir representing the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Fountain Chapel, Vancouver’s first Black church; and two different types of dancers, as well as a pianist, saxophonist and singer, all representing the incredible talent that was regularly on display in the community’s nightclubs and speakeasies.

Special features

• Remembering the community of Hogan’s Alley. Crafted in 1 oz. of 99.99% pure silver, this coin brings you the story of Hogan’s Alley, Vancouver’s first Black community and a cultural hub that thrived until its demolition in the 1960s.
• A glimpse of the past. This is the first time Hogan’s Alley has been highlighted on a Royal Canadian Mint coin, and every engraved detail on the coin’s reverse has special meaning.
• Commemorating Black history. This is the seventh coin in the 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 an inspiring celebration of resilience, community, innovation and determination.
• Low mintage. Only 5,000 coins available to collectors worldwide.
• Includes serialized certificate. The Royal Canadian Mint certifies all of its collector coins.
• No GST/HST

Specifications

Packaging

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