Royal Canadian Mint Celebrates Black History with Hogan's Alley Commemorative Coin

Celebrating Hogan's Alley: A Commemorative Coin for Black History Month

As Black History Month unfolds across Canada, the Royal Canadian Mint pays tribute to Hogan's Alley, a significant Black community in Vancouver's Strathcona neighborhood. This area was once vibrant with life, known for its rich cultural contributions and entrepreneurial spirit before it was sadly diminished due to urban planning decisions in the early 1970s.

Hogan's Alley started to see Black settlement as far back as 1858, marking the beginning of a community that thrived with porters from the Great Northern Railway, families, and entrepreneurs. It was home to various small businesses, entertainment venues, and beloved restaurants. However, unfair city planning led to the dismantling of this community, replaced by a road viaduct. As current leaders strive to revive Hogan's Alley, the Mint's latest collector coin provides a tangible acknowledgment of this community's enduring spirit and contributions.

Starting February 4, 2025, collectors and supporters can purchase the "2025 Fine Silver Commemorating Black History" coin.

Djaka Blais, Executive Director of the Hogan's Alley Society, highlighted the significance of understanding and honoring the history behind Hogan's Alley. "As we work towards recreating a hub for Black communities in Metro Vancouver, it is important to learn about the historic Black presence and contributions that shaped our city. This commemorative coin is a meaningful acknowledgment of the history and spirit of Hogan's Alley," he stated.

Marie Lemay, President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint, underscored the organization's commitment to celebrating the diverse heritage of Canada through its unique coins. "Crafting coins that breathe new life into stories reflective of Canada's heritage is important to the Royal Canadian Mint. We are proud to support the national celebration of Canada's Black History Month with coins that highlight fascinating chapters of Black history that should be preserved for generations to come," she expressed.

The coin's design is a creative depiction of Hogan's Alley, illustrated by artist Kwame Delfish. The reverse side showcases a collage of figures representing the community’s rich culture: a cook from one of the famous women-owned chicken houses, a railway sleeping car porter, various dancers, and musicians who were integral to the nightlife and cultural vibrancy of the area. The central feature is the Pacific Dogwood, British Columbia's provincial flower, symbolizing the essence of the region.

Delfish, whose Afro-Caribbean aesthetic shines in this coin, articulated the spirit of Hogan's Alley with grace. He reflects on how the community not only faced challenges but also thrived in arts, music, and business, nurturing a unique identity and collective pride among its residents. "Hogan's Alley is a chapter of Canadian history that is to be celebrated. I hope to have captured the essence of this distinct community while amplifying Black settlement in Canada," he remarked.

The 2025 coin will have a limited mintage of just 5,000 pieces, retailing at $119.95. Interested buyers can place orders directly through the Mint by calling their toll-free numbers or visiting their website at www.mint.ca. The coin will also be available at Mint boutiques in Ottawa and Winnipeg, participating Canada Post outlets, as well as a network of dealers and distributors across the globe.

Through such initiatives, the Royal Canadian Mint not only commemorates a crucial part of Canada's history but also hopes to spark conversations and inspire future generations to recognize and honor the rich contributions of Black Canadians, particularly those from Hogan's Alley.

For more information about the Royal Canadian Mint and to view the new coin, you can visit their official website or follow them on social media for updates.