Royal Canadian Mint donates an extra $50,000 to the Red Cross Alberta Fires Appeal (Fort McMurray)

OTTAWA, June 30, 2016 /CNW/ - After selling out all 10,000 "Firefighters" coins in its 2016 Fine Silver National Heroes series, the Royal Canadian Mint is proud to announce that it has donated an additional $50,000 to the Red Cross Alberta Fires Appeal benefitting the Fort McMurray community. The Mint donated $10,000 to the Red Cross when it launched the series on May 16, 2016 and committed to donate $5 from the sale of every firefighter-themed coin as additional support of this charitable campaign.

"The overwhelming customer response to our firefighter-themed coin shows that Canadians share our pride in the men and women who selflessly protect our cities and neighbourhoods each and every day," said Sandra Hanington, President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint.  "We are delighted that the sell-out of our "Firefighters" coin allows the Mint to play an even greater role in supporting the Red Cross Alberta Fires Appeal and in helping fellow Canadians in their time of need."

The National Heroes series consists of four coins crafted in 99.99% pure silver and features selective colour over engraving which brings to life the depiction of a firefighter, paramedic, police officer or infantry soldier in the line of duty. Designed by Canadian artist Ken Ryan, each coin has a face value of $15, a mintage of 10,000 and retails for $69.95. The "Paramedics" coin launched on June 7 and will be followed by "Police" (August 2) and "Military" (September 6). 

About the Royal Canadian Mint
The Royal Canadian Mint is the Crown Corporation responsible for the minting and distribution of Canada's circulation coins. An ISO 9001-2008 certified company the Mint is recognized as one of the largest and most versatile mints in the world, offering a wide range of specialized, high quality coinage products and related services on an international scale. For more information on the Mint, its products and services, visit. www.mint.ca

SOURCE Royal Canadian Mint

Alex Reeves, Senior Manager, Communications, Royal Canadian Mint, Telephone: [phone], [email protected]