Turtle Island, a celebration of creation and connection.

Inspired by the Ojibwe creation story of Turtle Island—a sacred tale of renewal, courage and kinship—this 1 oz. 99.99% pure silver coin honours the deep wisdom of Indigenous storytelling. The colourful scene envisions the moment the world was formed upon the turtle’s back, after the muskrat’s brave dive brought forth the soil that made life possible. With trees and flowers now rooted in harmony, Turtle Island is a living story of resilience and respect, reminding us that when we care for the land and its creatures, we nurture the future of all our communities.

Where water, land and spirit come together in a timeless balance.

Good to know

Rooted in Indigenous storytelling. On the occasion of National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21), this fine silver coin celebrates Indigenous storytelling and honours the Ojibwe creation story of Turtle Island. It is a meaningful piece that connects us to the wisdom of the land and the strength of its creatures.

Inspiring hope. Through its design and the story that inspired it, each coin is a visual reminder that from the smallest act of courage, entire worlds can grow.

A creation story painted in colour, courage. Beneath the vibrant colour application, engraved elements add texture and meaning to this visual story, echoing the layers of the creation story itself. The details invite closer reflection, becoming a quiet tribute to the creative process—the artistry that shapes every coin and every story.

First RCM collaboration. This is our first artistic collaboration with Ojibwe painter and graphic designer Patrick Hunter. Originally from Red Lake, Ontario, Patrick creates through a spiritual lens, drawing inspiration from nature and the timeless energy of the Woodland art style.

Art on a silver canvas. Your coin is crafted in 1 oz. 99.99% pure silver and features a luminous, mirror-like finish.

Low mintage. Only 5,000 coins are available worldwide.

Includes serialized certificate. The Royal Canadian Mint certifies all of its collector coins.

No GST/HST

Did you know?

Many versions of this creation story exist—here is how the artist tells it:

"Similar to most creation stories, ours begins with a great flood. Creator saw that those in power were corrupt, only seeking more power for themselves, so the rains were sent. To us, water is life; it can be soft and comforting, but it can also move mountains and take life away. After the water had settled, many of Earth’s creatures sought refuge upon a giant turtle’s back. If they could just retrieve soil from the bottom of the water, they could create a home again on the turtle. Many animals tried, but none could do it—the depth was just too much. Finally, the muskrat said he would try. He was gone a long time, until the creatures noticed his body float to the surface, but in his paw was the soil needed to begin again. It was placed on the turtle’s back and land began to form in all directions, becoming a refuge for all."

Behind closed doors

“My design celebrates the creation story of what is now called North America but to us, the Ojibwe, it has always, and will forever be, Turtle Island. Here, the muskrat’s determination to bring life-saving soil to the surface, and its ultimate sacrifice, reminds us that bravery comes in many sizes—it only takes one individual to make a difference and change the world for the better. In the present time, sharing stories from other cultures is fundamental to guard against erasure, and creating a coin designed to endure for generations is one way to ensure that the stories of my culture are carried forward.”

— Patrick Hunter, Artist

“The Turtle Island design honours the deep connection Indigenous Peoples hold with Creation. It reflects balance, respect, and our shared responsibility to protect the land and waters that sustain us.”

— Andy Rickard, Former Chief of Garden River First Nation

About the design

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

The reverse design by Ojibwe artist Patrick Hunter is a visual retelling of the Ojibwe creation story of Turtle Island, capturing the moment the world was shaped by the strengths and actions of Earth’s creatures. The muskrat is shown beneath gently swirling waters, having retrieved the soil that formed the foundation for life—a symbol of its bravery and sacrifice. Above, the giant turtle—presented in a Woodland art style—carries on its back the flourishing flowers and trees, including the Tree of Life, representing harmony and the connection among all living things. Above, the sun and its rays represent hope and the promise of a new day. The obverse features the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III by Canadian artist Steven Rosati.

By placing an order, customers acknowledge and agree that if a product is out of stock after an order has been placed and payment has been processed, the order for that product will be cancelled and a refund will be issued; no substitute product will be provided. Some items may not be exactly as shown. Items available while quantities last. Canada Post reserves the right to limit purchase quantities on certain items. © 2026 Royal Canadian Mint. All rights reserved.

Product # 246266

$20 Fine Silver Coin - Turtle Island (2026)