Kitchener artist designs new toonie

The toonie, which marks the 100th anniversary of the discovery of insulin, is according to the Royal Canadian Mint. in circulation now

Coin collectors can get hold of a new two-dollar coin designed by an artist in Kitchener.

The Tooni is now in circulation by the Royal Canadian Mint to mark the 100th anniversary of the discovery of insulin.

“It’s pretty surreal, I’m very honored to be able to participate and contribute my artwork,” said Jesse Koreck.

The design shows what the mint called the tools of the trade, including a mortar and pestle, a vial, a bottle. There are blood cells too, and the part that probably stands out the most is the light blue design, which is insulin in its monomeric form.

Light blue is the color used to raise awareness of diabetes around the world.

He said he was excited to contribute to a coin that will hopefully raise awareness on an issue that affects tons of Canadians every day.

As for putting the design together, Koreck admitted that it was difficult given the small surface area to work with.

“When you think about the actual insulin molecule, it’s pretty complicated,” he said. “We try to represent researchers as well as science and pay tribute to them.”

The discovery of insulin dates back to the research of four people, including Frederick Banting, John Macleod, Charles Best and James Collip.

If you can’t wait to discover the coin in your change, you can visit the Royal Canadian Mint website and get the coin now.

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