Collector’s coin crafted from pure Nunavut gold sourced in part from Agnico Eagle’s Meadowbank mine

Celebrating Nunavut Day and the 20th Anniversary of the Nunavut Territory, Agnico Eagle hosted a ceremony where the Royal Canadian Mint presented a new collector coin crafted entirely of Nunavut-sourced gold and featuring the iconic artwork of Inuk artist Germaine Arnaktauyok that first appeared on the $2 circulation coin released for Nunavut’s creation in 1999.

From mine to mint:

This 20th anniversary of Nunavut commemorative coin is struck in 99.99% pure gold exclusively sourced from our Meadowbank mine near Baker Lake and from TMAC Resources’ Doris North mine at Hope Bay. 

The gold was refined at the Royal Canadian Mint’s state-of-the-art facility and the coin was officially issued for purchase on June 25th. It is the second coin to feature exclusively Nunavut-sourced gold, the first one, called Symbols of the North, was released in 2018.

Recognizing the contribution of Agnico Eagle and TMAC Resources to the creation of this exceptional coin, Mint Vice-President of Sales Lorne Whitmore says he is proud of their relationship with the two mining companies and of the way this special new coin tells its own origin story. 

“The gold used can be directly traced back to the mines in Nunavut and reflects the commitment to ethical sourcing and business practices of all three project partners,” says Whitmore. “With this coin, the source of gold is a key element of the story, and an important part of what makes it unique.” 

Agnico Eagle is honored and proud that gold from our Meadowbank mine is part of this special commemorative piece. Sean Boyd said, “This truly is a golden era for Nunavut and for Agnico Eagle. Today, we are celebrating the birth of the Nunavut Territory and 20 years of self-governance and determination. And, by the end of this summer, Agnico Eagle will have celebrated the opening of two new gold mines in Nunavut – Meliadine and Amaruq.” 

He added, "Agnico Eagle shares common values with the Nunavummiut for family, traditions, respect and trust. This 20th anniversary is the perfect opportunity to showcase Nunavut’s contribution to Canada’s unique values and culture. We will continue to work with our Inuit partners to responsibility develop the Territory’s natural resources and contribute to economic and social prosperity to the benefit of all Nunavummiut.”