2021 – 2 Dollars Toonie Canada – Insulin Color

The 2021 Canadian $2 coins commemorating the 100th anniversary of the discovery of insulin were issued in two versions: one coloured and one uncoloured. The coloured coin features a touch of blue on the reverse side to highlight insulin, symbolizing diabetes awareness worldwide. Designed by Jesse Koreck, the reverse design includes iconic symbols representing insulin discovery such as a maple leaf, an early insulin vial, an Erlenmeyer flask, and a mortar and pestle, along with the insulin molecule in monomeric form shown in blue on the coloured coin, and the hormone’s action in the bloodstream extending onto the coin’s outer ring. The coins celebrate a major Canadian medical breakthrough first achieved at the University of Toronto in 1921, which saved millions of lives globally. The coins have uncirculated finishes, weigh 6.99 grams, measure 28 mm in diameter, and feature interrupted serrations on the edge. The coloured edition was released in limited rolls of 25 coins each, with a mintage of 17,000 rolls, and the obverse shows Queen Elizabeth II’s effigy by Susanna Blunt.