MMF and Royal Canadian Mint Honour Louis Riel with Silver Collector Coin

October 21, 2019

Winnipeg, MB - Today, the Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF) supported the Royal Canadian Mint (RCM) in unveiling a special edition coin honouring the life of Louis Riel, Métis leader and Founder of Manitoba, on the 175^th anniversary of his birth.

The coin was announced and launched at MMF's annual celebration of Riel's life, held in the Fort Garry Hotel, across the street from the historic Fort Garry, the seat of Riel's Provisional Government.

"Louis Riel is both an iconic figure and an aspirational role model not only for the Métis Nation, but for all Canadians. He protected Métis self-determination, stood strong for language, religious, and Indigenous rights, and resisted injustice," said David Chartrand, President of the Manitoba Metis Federation. "With his Provisional Government leadership, the Métis Nation became Canada's Negotiating Partner in Confederation and the Founder of Manitoba. We are proud that the Royal Canadian Mint has worked closely with us to commemorate President Riel's 175th birthday. We welcome them, and indeed all Canadians, in our very special celebration."

Designed by Métis artist David Garneau, this fine silver Special Edition Proof Dollar features a portrait of Riel, wearing a traditional Métis buckskin jacket, a Métis sash, the infinity symbol, and an engraving reading "Métis Nation Leader" in English, French and Michif - making it the first coin produced by the Mint to feature the Métis language. Only 15,000 coins will be produced, retailing for $59.95 CAD and available through the RCM as of November 5, 2019.

"The Mint plays an important role in crafting coins that tell stories of the people who have shaped the course of Canadian history," said Marie Lemay, President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint. "We are proud that our newest collector coin recognizes that Louis Riel's leadership and tireless advocacy for the Métis Nation made an undeniable contribution to Manitoba and Canada."

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Believe in Yourself; Believe in Métis.

The Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF) is the official democratic and self-governing political representative for the Métis Nation's Manitoba Métis Community. The Manitoba Métis are Canada's Negotiating Partner in Confederation and the Founders of the Province of Manitoba.

For media information, please contact:

Graeme Houssin
Communications Specialist
Manitoba Metis Federation
Office: (204) 586-8474 x360
Email: graeme.houssin@mmf.mb.ca

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