A Collector’s Dream: Coin Exchange at Canada Gold’s New Flagship Store
Something extraordinary is coming to Vancouver — and it’s not just for coin collectors.
On May 2–3, 2025, Canada Gold will celebrate the grand opening of our brand-new flagship store at 2490 Main Street with a two-day Coin Exchange event in partnership with the Royal Canadian Mint. Set in a beautifully restored 1929 heritage building in Mount Pleasant, this is more than just a store opening. It’s a celebration of Canadian history, artistry, and community — all through the stories coins can tell.
Whether you’ve been collecting coins for years or simply want to see what the buzz is about, this event offers something truly special. And for those in the know, it’s a rare opportunity to get your hands on two of the most talked-about commemorative coins of 2024 and 2025 — including one collectible card that’s already sold out online.
Two Historic Coins, One Unmissable Weekend
This year’s Coin Exchange shines a spotlight on two circulation coins from the Royal Canadian Mint, both released to honour major national milestones.
First up: the 2025 $1 coin marking the 150th anniversary of the Supreme Court of Canada. One of this year’s most anticipated coins, it officially entered circulation in April and is available in two versions — and at our event, we’ll have the coloured version, which wasn’t released in collector rolls. That means collectors have a rare chance to secure a clean, circulated copy of a coin that’s not widely available.
The design, by Kingston-based artist Silvia Pecota, features the iconic Supreme Court of Canada building overlaid with the Court’s official 150th anniversary emblem — a logo rich with symbolism. The interwoven numerals reflect Canada’s commitment to bilingualism and bijuralism, while nine laurel leaves represent the Court’s nine justices. Justitia and Veritas, the bronze statues outside the Court, quietly remind us that justice and truth are at the heart of Canada’s highest legal institution — a theme echoed in the coin’s intricate detailing.
Honouring 100 Years of the RCAF
Equally powerful is the 2024 $2 coin commemorating the 100ᵗʰ anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). Designed by Toronto-based illustrator Pui Yan Fong, the coin’s dynamic artwork showcases nine different aircraft from across the RCAF’s history, spanning everything from peacekeeping planes to tactical helicopters.
Aircraft featured include the CC-130 Hercules, a long-range transport icon; the CT-114 Tutor, beloved by Snowbirds fans; the CF-188 Hornet, a sleek and agile fighter jet; and the CH-146 Griffon, which has served in search and rescue, surveillance, and humanitarian operations. The design also includes a boreal forest tree line — a nod to the uniquely Canadian landscapes over which these aircraft fly — and the historic RCAF roundel, used since 1946.
At its heart, the coin is a tribute to the 18,000 personnel who currently serve across 75 trades in the RCAF, as well as the countless others who came before them. It’s a reminder that behind every flight, mission, or maneuver, there are people — experts, innovators, and protectors — giving their all in service of this country.
And in a rare treat, the coin’s designer, Pui Yan Fong, will be at the event in person, signing commemorative keepsake display cards. These collector cards have already sold out online, but we’ll have them available on-site. At just $14.95, they’re a meaningful, affordable way to take home a personalized piece of Canadian military history — and meet the artist who brought the skies to life.
A Historic Setting for a New Chapter
This event also marks the public debut of Canada Gold’s new Vancouver home — and the space itself is part of the celebration.
Housed in a former Bank of Montreal building dating back to 1929, the new flagship store blends historic character with modern design. Two preserved bank vaults remain inside the building, and during the event, guests will get the chance to see behind one of them — a special behind-the-scenes vault experience that connects the past with our future.
Beyond coins, we’ll be bringing the space to life with in-store promotions, interactive displays, and photo opportunities — making it a fun and meaningful outing for families, collectors, and anyone who loves a good story.
Plan Your Visit
Dates
• Friday, May 2 — 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
• Saturday, May 3 — 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Location
Canada Gold Flagship Store
2490 Main Street, Vancouver (Mount Pleasant)
What to Expect
• Coin exchanges (cash only)
• Artist meet-and-greet with Pui Yan Fong
• Commemorative keepsake cards ($14.95, while supplies last)
• Rare opportunity to secure the coloured Supreme Court coin
• In-store promotions and giveaways
Note: Quantities are limited, and demand is high. Lineups are expected.
At Canada Gold, we believe coins are more than currency. They’re artifacts, memorials and conversation starters — miniature stories that connect us to our country, to each other, and to the moments that shape us.
We’re honoured to launch our new space with an event that celebrates the people, institutions, and artistry behind these remarkable coins. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just stopping by to learn something new, we hope you’ll join us.
Let history shine in your hands.
