Royal Canadian Mint honours Canada's national heroes with silver collector coin series

Mint to donate $10,000 and portion of proceeds of the "Firefighters" coin to Red Cross Alberta Fires Appeal (Fort McMurray)

WINNIPEG, May 17, 2016 /CNW/ - The Royal Canadian Mint is proudly honouring Canada's national heroes with a new silver collector coin series. The series features firefighters, paramedics, police and the military, all of which face danger in the line of duty yet remain steadfast in their commitment and dedication to helping others. The coins were unveiled today at a ceremony held at the Mint's production facility in Winnipeg.

"On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would like to thank our firefighters, paramedics, police and the military for their commitment to preserve and protect the lives of Canadians every single day," said the Honourable Bill Morneau, Minister of Finance. "The dedication and professionalism of these brave men and women, who ensure we continue to live in a safe society, are a true inspiration to all Canadians."

"This coin series is a wonderful addition to any collection, paying tribute to our everyday heroes who put themselves at risk every time they answer the call of duty to protect us," said Sandra Hanington, President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint. "These coins are also a way for the Mint and all of our employees to say thank you for the unwavering selflessness and courage these heroes demonstrate in their communities."

In conjunction with this coin series, the Mint is donating $10,000 to the Red Cross Alberta Fires Appeal (Fort McMurray) as well as $5 from the sale of every "Firefighters" coin, which is the first coin in the series.

Each of the four coins in the series is produced in 99.999% pure silver and features selective colour over engraving which brings to life the depiction of a firefighter, paramedic, police officer or infantry soldier in the line of duty. Designed by Canadian artist Ken Ryan, each coin has a face value of $15, a mintage of 10,000 and retails for $69.95.

These coins can be ordered from the Mint at 1-800-267-1871 in Canada, 1-800-268-6468 in the US, or online at www.mint.ca.  The "Firefighters" coin is available now at the Mint's boutiques in Ottawa, Winnipeg and Vancouver, as well as through the Mint's global network of dealers and distributors, including participating Canada Post outlets.  The remaining three coins in the series can be ordered from the Mint as of today and will be available on the following dates:

• Paramedics - June 7, 2016
• Police - August 7, 2016
• Military - September 6, 2016

The entire series is also available by subscription.  Each subscription includes a special wooden collector case to proudly showcase all of these heroes side by side. Contact the Mint today!

About the Royal Canadian Mint
The Royal Canadian Mint is the Crown Corporation responsible for the minting and distribution of Canada's circulation coins. An ISO 9001-2008 certified company the Mint is recognized as one of the largest and most versatile mints in the world, offering a wide range of specialized, high quality coinage products and related services on an international scale. For more information on the Mint, its products and services, visit www.mint.ca.

Images of these coins are available by visiting https://www.dropbox.com/sh/2thbme5uldevmok/AABzCoexe4YEkq69dH0ZO7qUa?dl=0

SOURCE Royal Canadian Mint

Image with caption: "Royal Canadian Mint President Sandra Hanington, Winnipeg Mayor Brian Bowman, Mint Board of Directors member Bonnie Staples-Lyon and Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister join emergency first responders, at the Mint’s Winnipeg facility, in unveiling collector coins celebrating Canada’s national heroes (May 17, 2016) (CNW Group/Royal Canadian Mint)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20160517_C2604_PHOTO_EN_692988.jpg

For further information: Alex Reeves, Senior Manager, Communications, Royal Canadian Mint, Telephone: [phone], [e-mail]