Royal Canadian Mint launching coins honoring Pope John Paul II

Published: 2005-06-06

OTTAWA (CNS) -- The Royal Canadian Mint will launch two commemorative coins -- one gold and one silver -- in honor of Pope John Paul II June 14. The coins, designed by artist Susan Taylor, show the pope raising one hand in blessing while holding on to his crosier. The gold coin has a face value of $75 (US$60.30), the silver $10 (US$8). In a June 2 statement, the mint described Pope John Paul as a "central force in world affairs." "For many in Canada and around the world, he was the hero who brought down communism in Poland," the statement said. The coins come in maroon display cases protected by a black box. The coins can be purchased by a toll-free call to the Royal Canadian Mint at: (888) 729-9903.

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