Obverse. Photo © Royal Canadian Mint
  • 2 Dollars 2024, Canada, Charles III, Inuit Nunangat
  • 2 Dollars 2024, Canada, Charles III, Inuit Nunangat
Description

Inuit Nunangat, meaning the Inuit homeland, is a vast region encompassing land, water, and ice, serving as a foundation of unity, strength, resilience, and identity for Inuit. Symbolizing both Inuit unity and regional diversity, the coin’s design was created collaboratively by four Inuit artists, each representing one of the four regions within Inuit Nunangat: Tegan Voisey (Makkovik, Nunatsiavut), Thomassie Mangiok (Ivujivik, Nunavik), Charlotte Karetak (Arviat, Nunavut), and Mary Okheena (Ulukhaktok, Inuvialuit Settlement Region).

Obverse

Depicts a left-profile portrayal of King Charles III, clad in a shirt and tie without a crown, encircled by a Latin inscription, with the engraver's initials located on the neck.

CHARLES III DEI GRATIA REX means King Charles III, by the Grace of God King

Engraver: Steven Rosati (SR)

CHARLES III 2024 D·G·REX
SR
2 DOLLARS

Reverse

Depicts Nuliajuk surrounded by sea creatures essential to Inuit sustenance, including a walrus, narwhal, two beluga whales, a seal, and Arctic char. The outer ring displays regionally specific ulu designs, each created by one of the four contributing artists. A pattern used both in the tradition of Inuit tattooing and on clothing appears between the two security features at the base of the ring. The inscription “INUIT NUNANGAT” highlights the importance of this term in expressing Canada’s identity.

Nuliajuk, known in Inuit mythology as the spirit of the sea, is a powerful figure central to many Inuit oral traditions across the Arctic. Often depicted as a woman with a long braid or as a mermaid-like being, she resides beneath the ocean, controlling the marine animals Inuit depend on, such as seals, walrus, and whales. Inuit stories describe Nuliajuk as a complex character, sometimes portrayed as vengeful or angry when human transgressions, such as neglecting rituals or showing disrespect, disturb the balance of nature. Hunters and community members traditionally seek the guidance of a shaman to appease Nuliajuk when sea animals become scarce, reflecting her vital role in the sustainability and survival of Inuit communities. Her presence in Inuit culture serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between people, animals, and the natural world.

INUIT NUNANGAT

Edge

CANADA * 2 DOLLARS *

Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Circulating)
Material Bi-Metallic
Ring Nickel Plated Steel
Center Brass Plated Aluminium Bronze
Weight 6.99 g
Diameter 28 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Alt # RCM# 247277, RCM# 249079, RCM# 249080
Mint
Royal Canadian Mint (RCM)

Related coins

Inuit Nunangat

Bi-Metallic, 6.99 g, ⌀ 28 mm