TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Royal Canadian Mint (加拿大皇家鑄幣廠) launched a new Christmas commemorative coin, the Whimsical Holiday Tree–Lenticular Coin (奇趣假日樹－立體硬幣), on Thursday (Dec. 11). Designed by Taiwanese-Canadian artist Emily Chen (陳思寧), the coin features iconic Canadian animals and aims to evoke a festive spirit through its dynamic design.
The coin's front showcases animals such as polar bears, rabbits, beavers, and moose, while the reverse bears an image of King Charles III (查爾斯三世國王). The mint released only 30,000 of these coins worldwide. Chen explained that these animals are emblematic of Canada and have appeared on various coin denominations, aiming to integrate these elements to celebrate the winter season.
Emily Chen, who graduated from Queen's University (皇后大學) with a degree in fine arts in 1998, noted the influence of her Taiwanese cultural background on her artistic creativity. She plans to publish a picture book exploring the identity of second-generation Taiwanese immigrants. Chen humorously remarked, "I designed this 50-cent coin at age 50, and I hope to design a $1 coin when I turn 100".
This coin, with its sliding animal effect when tilted, invites people worldwide to experience the excitement and joy of the holidays. Chen hopes that Taiwanese people can connect with Canada's northern charm through this design and join in celebrating the beauty of winter.