A new collector coin from the Royal Canadian Mint honours the first Canadian set to travel around the moon on the Artemis II mission. Royal Canadian Mint
The Royal Canadian Mint has released a special collector coin to celebrate Canada’s role in the Artemis II moon mission. The launch highlights a historic moment for the country as it takes part in a major step forward in space exploration.
Celebrating a Canadian First
Jeremy Hansen, an astronaut with the Canadian Space Agency, has made history as the first Canadian set to travel around the moon. His role places Canada among a select group of nations involved in deep space missions alongside NASA.
Hansen joins a crew of four astronauts on the Artemis II mission, which will orbit the moon and return to Earth. The mission marks the first time in more than five decades that humans will travel this far into space.
Design Highlights Canadian Identity
Canadian artist Pandora Young created the design of the $20 fine silver coin. The coin contains 99.99 per cent pure silver and includes a special feature that glows under blacklight.
The front of the coin shows Hansen wearing the Orion Crew Survival System spacesuit. The design includes clear Canadian symbols, such as the Royal Canadian Air Force badge, a Canadian Space Agency patch, and the national flag on the shoulder.
In the background, the moon appears as a detailed engraving. When viewed under blacklight, the design reveals additional elements, including a glowing moon and a reflection of Earth in the astronaut’s visor.
Reverse Side Features Royal Portrait
The other side of the coin displays an image of King Charles III. Canadian artist Steven Rosati created the portrait, which continues the tradition of featuring Canada’s monarch on official coins.
Limited Release for Collectors
The Mint has set the price of the coin at $279.95. Only 7,500 pieces are available worldwide, making it a limited-edition item for collectors and space enthusiasts.
People can purchase the coin through the Mint’s website, its boutiques in Ottawa and Winnipeg, select post offices, and authorized dealers.
A Mission with Global Importance
The Artemis II mission launched on April 1 and will run for about 10 days. The crew includes commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, mission specialist Christina Koch, and Hansen.
The mission will test systems needed for future lunar landings as part of the broader Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the moon.
Canada’s Growing Role in Space
Canada continues to strengthen its presence in space exploration. Through contributions in science and technology, the country supports international missions and helps shape future discoveries.
This new coin serves as both a tribute to that role and a reminder of Canada’s place in one of the most exciting chapters in modern space history.
