Photo – courtesy of Royal Canadian Mint ©
The Royal Canadian Mint pays tribute to the Amber Valley community of Alberta in its latest issue of the Commemorating Black History fine silver coin series. Established in 1910 by African American families seeking refuge from segregationist laws and racial hostility in the United States, approximately 300 individuals carved out a new life in Northern Alberta, enduring and overcoming various hardships. The thriving settlement, renamed Amber Valley in 1931, is immortalized on a 99.99% pure silver collector coin, released alongside the annual observance of Black History Month.
Marie Lemay, President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint, expressed pride in contributing to Canada’s Black History Month celebrations through the coin series, highlighting the resilience and spirit of Black communities across the country.
The reverse design, created by artist Valentine De Landro, depicts a scene of homesteader families arriving in Pine Creek, Alberta, in 1909, with a map outline of Alberta and a wagon train of settlers completing their journey from the southern United States. Log cabins frame the scene, representing the pioneers’ determination to build a new home in Northern Alberta.
Artist Valentine De Landro aimed to convey the journey and sense of community in the composition, symbolizing Amber Valley’s legacy of pursuing a better life.
The obverse of the coin features Queen Elizabeth II’s effigy by Susanna Blunt, with a special marking representing the various effigies that have graced Canadian coins during her reign.
Limited to a mintage of 5,500, the 2024 $20 Fine Silver Coin – Commemorating Black History: Amber Valley is priced at $104.95. It is available for purchase through the Mint’s website, boutiques, participating Canada Post outlets, and a global network of dealers and distributors.
