Last updated on July 2nd, 2025 at 08:54 am
Last Updated on July 2, 2025 Posted by Colonial Acres Coins
If you’re a Canadian coin enthusiast, the new 2021 Collector Set with $2 Coin and Bank Note is the perfect addition to your coin collection. Produced by the Royal Canadian Mint, this coin and banknote set celebrates the rich history of the Canadian toonie. Here’s everything you need to know about what makes this set so special.
The History
While Canadian currency has been around for centuries, it evolved to its current form starting in the 1850s, when Canada decided to adopt a currency system that resembled the one the United States used. The government issued both coins and (from 1870) banknotes of various denominations. One of the most popular banknotes was the $2 denomination.
In 1996, the Canadian mint transitioned from producing a $2 banknote to a $2 silver coin. This change was made in an attempt to save on production costs, because coins last, on average, 20 years longer than paper money. The coin’s design has evolved slightly in the 25 years since it started being produced, but each design features a polar bear on the back of the coin.
This set includes an uncirculated banknote from the vault of the Bank of Canada. It also includes a fine silver reproduction of the original coin that was released to replace the banknote. On the 25th anniversary of this historic currency change, the set is a must-have for any coin collector.
The Design
The design of these two collector’s items is nearly as appealing as the history behind them. The colourful banknote was never released into circulation because it was printed as a replacement bill in case other banknotes were ripped or damaged during the printing process. It features the Birds of Canada design that launched in 1986 and stayed in production until the banknote stopping being printed a decade later.
The coin is made of 99.99% pure silver. To represent this first bi-metallic coin produced by the Royal Canadian Mint, this silver version features a gold-plated center and rim. This design adds class to the toonie that hasn’t been seen previously in Canadian currency. The design features the imprint of a polar bear upon an ice floe on the back. The image was created by artist Bent Townsend. The front of the coin bears an image of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. This illustration was designed by Dora de Pedery-Hunt. This side of the coin is also etched with the double dates 1996-2021, commemorating 25 years of the toonie circulating as a coin.
The Features
The new 2021 Collector Set with $2 Coin and Bank Note features two authentic pieces of Canadian currency. The set presents one of the most iconic changes in modern Canadian currency with pieces from both before and after the transition. Some notable features of these two items include:
- The banknote’s serial number includes the prefix BRX. This authenticates the note as a replacement note; the one in the set never entered circulation.
- The coin has a slightly larger diameter than the original design to accommodate the celebratory dates etched on the front.
- The coin comes with a serialized certificate of authentication. This certificate comes directly from the Royal Canadian Mint.
If you want to add this unique 2021 Numismatic set with Canadian $2 Coin and Bank Note to your collection, visit Colonial Acres Coins to find an affordable price for this great set. Not only is the set visually attractive, but it is also historic, making it a great addition to any coin collection. Visit the Colonial Acres Coins shop or browse our selection of collectible coins online and claim your set today.
