This 2022 $20 fine silver coin beautifully celebrates the culture and traditions of the First Peoples of Canada. Relaying a story is a lesson in itself: one generation sets an example for the next, entrusting them with knowledge that then becomes their story to tell. This second Generations coin brings you the story of the Red River Métis, as told through a traditional Métis beadwork pattern. One by one, the engraved beads come together to form the dazzling floral motifs that represent a living tradition for the “Flower Beadwork People.” Mintage is limited to 5,000. HST/GST exempt.
The Design:
The coin’s reverse features an engraved rendering of an original floral beadwork pattern by Métis artist Jennine Krauchi, who has weaved together traditional beading elements to tell the story of the Red River Métis. At the base of the design, roots are intertwined with the Red River to represent the Red River Métis homeland and ancestry, while the infinity symbol speaks to the Red River Métis’ eternal and unbreakable spirit. Placed within the river are the Michif words “TAAPWEEYIMISHO” and “TAAPWEEYIMIKLIIMICHIF”, which mean “Believe in yourself” and “Believe in (the) Métis”. The central portion of the design speaks to a period of repression and loss, but the prairie rose— a classic Métis motif— represents the survival of the Red River Métis and a cultural resurgence. Long stems adorned with “mousetracks,” leaves and flower buds fill the pattern with a sense of love and joy.
The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.