Through works that reveal a lifelong love of nature, and mosaics that reflect his belief in unconstrained creative expression, illustrious artist Jean Paul Riopelle (1923-2002) used his art to push boundaries and command the attention of critics and art lovers worldwide. His monumental fresco, L’Hommage à Rosa Luxemburg, is highlighted on the 2023 $2 commemorative circulation coin that is twice featured in each Commemorative Collector Keepsake Card, where they pay homage to this Montréal-born 20th century artist.

This seven-coin set includes 2023-dated $2, $1, 25¢, 10¢, 5¢ coins bearing classic designs – these are only available as non-circulation coins (legal tender but not intended for general circulation).

ABOUT THE $2 COINS
On the $2 coin’s reverse, the inner core adapts select elements of Panel 29 of L’Hommage à Rosa Luxemburg by Jean Paul Riopelle, while the outer ring bears the “Riopelle100” centenary mark (courtesy of the Riopelle Foundation). The obverse features 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.


DID YOU KNOW?
Though he is widely known for his abstract mosaics, Jean Paul Riopelle worked with a variety of mediums throughout his career. His L’Hommage à Rosa Luxemburg features spray-painted silhouettes– including the emblematic birds seen on this coin – that form symbolic representations of the life he shared with his former companion.

PACKAGING
Your coins come packaged in a colourful, informative, ready-to-display collector card.

The ‘Riopelle100’ mark, created by Raphaël Melançon, appears on the coin courtesy of the Riopelle Foundation, in collaboration with which the coin was created.

Panel 29 of L’Hommage à Rosa Luxemburg, 1992, acrylic and spray paint on canvas. Triptych, 1.55 m in height x 40.39 m in length. © Estate of Jean Paul Riopelle / Copyright Visual Arts - CARCC (2023).