Canada has revealed a new $1 coin to commemorate the 50-year anniversary of gay sex being decriminalised.
Designed by Vancouver-based artist Joe Average, who was diagnosed with HIV in 1984, the coin features a pair of overlapping faces and the word “equality” in both English and French.
Randy Boissonnault, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's special adviser on LGBTIQ+ issues, said the coin represented “an important day” for the LGBTIQ+ community in Canada.
“It is an opportunity to reflect on a landmark event in our country’s history, and a reminder of the progress still to be made as we work toward inclusion and equality for all LGBTQ2 Canadians,” he said.
Marie Lemay, president of the Royal Canadian Mint, which produces Canada's circulation coins, said: “The Mint plays a significant role in celebrating Canada’s culture, history and values through coins.
“Marking 50 years since a landmark decision that began a process of legal reforms to recognise the rights of LGBTQ2 Canadians is a powerful way to recognise Canada’s profound belief in equality and inclusion."
She added: “The Mint constantly strives to live these values, and our employees are proud to share the message of equality through this new commemorative circulation coin.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s father, former leader Pierre Trudeau, originally proposed the decriminalisation of gay sex in 1967.
“I think the view we take here is that there’s no place for the state in the bedrooms of the nation," he said at the time.
"I think that what’s done in private between adults doesn’t concern the Criminal Code. When it becomes public this is a different matter, or when it relates to minors this is a different matter."
The coin, which also comes in a limited edition coloured version, is now in circulation.
