150 Years with Manitoba in the Confederation

Though delayed during the pandemic, both the celebration and coin release for the 150th Anniversary of Manitoba’s entry in to the Confederation has come to pass. A 2 ounce silver proof denominated $30, the Manitoba 150 coin is classic in its reverse design, adapted from Raymond Taylor’s design for the 1970 Manitoba Centennial dollar struck in nickel. Yet it’s cutting edge in the obverse, which features a laser engraved background for Arnold Machin’s Queen Elizabeth II bust. Look closely and you can see the background is made up of Manitoba 150 logos.

“The year 2020 marked 150 years since the Manitoba Act received royal assent, paving the way for Manitoba to become Canada’s fifth province. Manitoba 150 “United in Celebration – Unis dans la fête” emphasizes that our province is in the heart of the country, uniting the east and the west. The unbroken line of the logo represents our unity and the strong connection we feel to our home, uniting us as Manitobans. We are thrilled that the Mint is re-releasing the Centennial coin, depicting the Manitoba Crocus, while also now incorporating the Manitoba 150 logo, to mark our sesquicentennial in 2020.” Brad Robertson, Chief of Protocol and Manitoba 150 Committee Member.

“The Manitoba 150: United in Celebration coin, showcasing our provincial flower, the prairie crocus, is particularly meaningful in these challenging times, “ said Monique LaCoste and Stuart Murray, co-chairs of The Manitoba 150 Host Committee. “Just as the crocus bursts through the soil each year after a typical prairie winter to thrive and bring the promise of a new day, so too will Manitoba face the future with hope, resilience, and a spark of joy”

“This coin celebrates an important chapter in Canadian history,” said Marie Lemay, President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint. “The Mint and its employees are proud to take part in celebrating Manitoba, with Winnipeg being home to our state-of-the-art facility where Canadian circulation coins have been produced since 1976.”

Limited to a mintage of 2,500, the 2020 dated, but 2021 released Manitoba 150: United in Celebration $30 fine silver coin retails for about $200. Check the Royal Canadian Mint website at www.mint.ca for availability and to look through other coin releases from this minting giant.