2010 Olympic 25-cent Ice Hockey coin launched
The Royal Canadian Mint (RCM) today officially released the second of 17 circulation coins to celebrate the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Ice hockey - widely
considered Canada’s game - is depicted on the 25-cent coin. The coin will enter circulation on April 3 in conjunction with the 2007 Women’s World Hockey Championship being held in Winnipeg from April 3 to April 10.
Speaking at the official launch ceremony held at the RCM’s state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Winnipeg, Ian E. Bennett, President and CEO of the RCM, said: “It’s no coincidence that we’re in Winnipeg, the site of both the world’s premier annual hockey event for women and our facility that has produced the ice hockey coin. The Mint is delighted to recognize Canada’s passion for this sport as we build towards the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.”
Up to 22 million 25-cent ice hockey coins will enter into circulation and will be available exclusively at RBC Royal Bank and participating Petro-Canada outlets. RBC Royal Bank is a Premier National Partner and Petro-Canada is a National Partner of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
Canadians can also look for these special coins in their change. Participating Petro-Canada gas stations will also sell ice hockey sports cards, containing a uniquely painted version of the coin. The sports cards will sell for $7.95 and will also be available as of April 3.
Canadian men won the first gold medal for ice hockey in Olympic Games history at the 1920 Summer Games in Antwerp and the team has been a perennial favourite and serious competitor ever since. The Canadian women’s team has medaled in all three Games in which ice hockey has been a full medal sport, beginning with Nagano in 1998 - the last two consecutive have been gold medals.
Designed by Canadian artist Glenn Green of Vancouver, BC, the coin features a hockey player in the centre, a stylized maple leaf and the words ‘Vancouver 2010′. The obverse features the portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, rendered by Susanna Blunt.
Additionally, for enthusiasts and serious collectors in Canada and abroad, the RCM has introduced a sterling silver collector version of the ice hockey coin, featuring the sport and a stunning hologram. The sterling silver coin was designed by Canadian artist Steve Hepburn of Richmond, BC and retail for $69.95.
Canadians can purchase coins through the RCM’s website at www.mint.ca by calling 1-800-267-1871 or through authorized dealers.
