This small pure gold coin celebrates Canada’s Inuit peoples and traditional culture. The qulliq or oil lamp element is the hopeful light that burns bright on a dark night — the light that warms the mind, body and spirit. Like an inukshuk landmark that guides the way, the traditional oil lamp is an important symbol of Inuit culture: it represents hearth and home in the Arctic, where it embodies the strength and care provided by the women who nurture its flames. The coin is dated 2020 with a $10 denomination and weighs 1.581 grams of pure gold. Adding to its collectability, the mintage is limited to just 4,000. HST/GST exempt.
The Design:
The reverse design by Inuk artist Ulaayu Pilurtuut is a contemporary-styled celebration of Inuit culture, identity and way of life. Surrounded by inuksuit that symbolize community and guidance, the Inuk woman at the centre of the image tends to the traditional qulliq, an Inuit oil lamp that provides light and warmth. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.