Canada's New Toonie Is Already In Circulation & Here's How To Get Your Hands On It

If you want to brighten up the change in your pocket, keep a lookout for Canada's brand new $2 coin.

Launched on Tuesday, July 13, the jazzy new toonie pays tribute to a "Canadian medical breakthrough that changed the world forever."

Decorated with scientific instruments and blood cells, the new coin celebrates 100 years since insulin was discovered by Canadian researchers back in 1921.

Narcity reached out to the Royal Candian Mint to find out how cash-carriers can get their hands on one of the interesting new designs.

"The Mint manages the national coin distribution system which consists of a dozen regional hubs established across Canada," representative Alex Reeves explained. "It is through these hubs that banks and armoured car companies (ACCs) supply themselves with new coins."

Reeves said that as banks and ACCs across Canada replenish their $2 coin inventories, they will receive new toonies until all 3 million have been fully distributed.

If you don't get one of the new $2 coins in the next few days, Reeves says don't be discouraged.

"The important thing to remember is that the new coins do not enter circulation all at once," he told Narcity. "It is a gradual process, driven by demand from banks and ACCs."

He said that Canadians should keep an eye on their change as businesses continue to reopen and as more cash changes hands.

If you're super keen to nab an Insulin-inspired toonie, you can buy pristine, uncirculated versions from the Royal Canadian Mint online — they will cost you a little more than $2 though!