The Royal Canadian Mint has launched a new series of commemorative coins paying tribute to everyday heroes.

The first coin in the 'National Heroes' series is dedicated to firefighters. The series is meant to pay tribute to the everyday heroes and their selfless commitment and sacrifice to their communities and beyond. Other coins planned for this series include : police, paramedics and the military.

Canada 2016 Silver Firefighter $15 Coin Reverse

The coin's reverse is meant to evoke the selfless bravery that firefighters display every day. In the background is a house engulfed in flames and billowing clouds of smoke. In the foreground, treated with selective colouring, is firefighter moving away from the scene in the background. He is carrying a pike pole(fireman's Axe) in one hand and a small family dog in the other, evidently having just risked his own life to save the family pet from certain demise.

Canada 2016 Silver Firefighter $15 Coin in Box

This heartwarming scene is made more poignant by the selective coloured treatment of the coin. The lively coloured turnout gear and helmet of the firefighter set against the cold silver of the sculpted background makes the coin very eye catching.

Canada 2016 Silver National Heroes $15 Coin Obverse

The obverse legend reads “15 DOLLARS” and “CANADA 2016”. The reverse of the coin was designed by Canadian artist Ken Ryan.

The standard reverse design is the right facing effigy of HRH Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Susanna Blunt. The reverse legend reads “ELIZABETH II” and “D. D. REGINA”.

The crown sized proof quality coin is issued in encapsulated and in a small red presentation box. The coin is struck of .9999 Fineness pure silver and weighs 23.17 grams with a face value of CA$15. The mintage for this coin will be limited to a maximum of 10 000 units.

At the time of writing the coin is available at the Canadian mint for $69.95 CAD