The Royal Canadian Mint unveiled a new coin today at the Manitoba Legislature to honour Canadian veterans who fought to defend Hong Kong in December 1941. This coin marks the 75th anniversary of the bravery and sacrifice of the Hong Kong vets.

“This Royal Canadian Mint silver collector coin pays a lasting tribute to the bravery and resolve of the Canadians who fought to defend Hong Kong in December 1941 and whose actions remind us all of the high cost of defending our values,” said the Honourable Bill Morneau, Minister of Finance. “Even though the soldiers of the Winnipeg Grenadiers and Royal Rifles of Canada had not seen combat before the Battle Hong Kong, they stood firm in the face of aggression and showed a courage that will never be forgotten.”

“The Mint is proud to continue honouring Canada’s veterans through coins which allow Canadians, as well as collectors around the world, to remember their incredible stories of sacrifice in defense of justice and humanity,” said Sandra Hanington, President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint.  “With a new silver coin commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Hong Kong, the Mint recognizes the dedication of Canadian soldiers who fought hard to defend our values despite overwhelming odds.”

The coin was designed by Canadian artist Joel Kimmel and is minted in 99.99% pure silver. It features two Canadian soldiers in Pacific uniform fighting on the rugged terrain of Hong Kong Island as Japanese ships massed in the waters below evoke the scale of the enemy invasion facing Commonwealth troops. 

-News4 Staff-