2023 Canada $20 Commemorating Black History: Construction Battalion Pure Silver

Brought to light: No. 2 Construction Battalion and its contributions to Canada’s efforts in the First World War.

They served with distinction, and they were willing to risk their lives to preserve the very rights and freedoms that weren’t always afforded to them before, during and after the First World War. From the unit’s formation in 1916 until its disbandment in 1920, the members of No. 2 Construction Battalion the largest all-Black battalion-sized unit in Canadian military history persevered in the face of anti-Black racism to provide vital support to Canada’s war effort, by assisting Canadian Forestry Corps (CFC) lumber operations in France.

This 99.99% pure silver coin honours the brave men who served in No. 2 Construction Battalion and brings to light their often-overlooked contribution in the First World War. Despite racial prejudice, the members of No. 2 Construction Battalion persevered in their determination to serve, and a century later, their legacy remains an inspiration.

Join us in paying homage to No. 2 Construction Battalion.

Special features

Celebrate black history. Coin #5 in our annual Commemorating Black History series, which celebrates the achievements of Black Canadians and highlights the struggles that are an important part of Canada’s story.

A military theme. This is the first coin to highlight Black military history in Canada and the experiences of Black Canadian soldiers. It’s a timely theme: in July 2022, the Government of Canada issued an apology for the historic racism endured by members of No. 2 Construction Battalion.

Pure silver. Crafted in 99.99% pure silver.

Includes serialized certificate. The Royal Canadian Mint certifies all of its collector coins, including this one, which has a limited mintage of just 5,500 coins worldwide.

Packaging

Your coin is encapsulated and presented in a black Royal Canadian Mint-branded clamshell with a black beauty box.