To honour the contributions of its oldest citizens and acknowledge the promise of its youngest, Alberta is issuing a series of four special centennial medallions in 2005.
A 14-karat gold medallion will be presented to Albertans 100 years or older (centenarians) as a memento that paying tribute to the hard work, ingenuity and pioneering spirit of the people who built the prosperous, vibrant province we live in today. And as a lasting tribute to veterans, the Government of Alberta will be presenting a 14-karat gold centennial medallion and a special certificate to each Royal Canadian Legion across the province.
An application form was sent to all centenarians in 2005, to confirm the information necessary to receive a medallion. If an eligible Alberta centenarian has not received a medallion application form, call 310-4455 to arrange for one to be mailed out.
A special-edition brass centennial medallion will be given to all students registered in kindergarten through grade 12 in Alberta schools by the end of this school year. Kindergarten students starting school this fall will receive a medallion at the beginning of the 2005-06 school year. Each school district is coordinating the distribution of these medallions. Find more information about the distribution of the Centennial Medallion to students on the Alberta Education website.
A limited number of sterling silver medallions will be awarded as a commemorative gift from the province. This medallion is going to individuals such as visiting dignitaries and leaders from other jurisdictions.
And, a brass medallion was created and available to the general public as a momento of the centennial year. It was available for purchase at the Queen’s Printer Bookstores and around the province in select Alberta museums and historic sites. The brass medallion retailed for $8.95 (including GST). The medallion is sold out.
The Design:
Each centennial medallion is based on a similar design.
The front of the medallion is illustrated with images that evoke a sense of movement, signifying a province with momentum, wealth, and continued growth. The graceful, upward motion in the arms of the people and the height of the mountains and skyscrapers represent advancement and economic activity. A steam locomotive traveling through the landscape and stylized oil rig with ribbons of vapour rising above it pay tribute to the industries that have contributed to the province’s economic wealth. The province’s agricultural heritage, which is central to many Alberta families, is commemorated in a sheaf of wheat.
The back of the medallion features Alberta’s Coat of Arms and the dates of the province’s centennial. A 100-point star rings both sides of the medallion, and represents each of the 100 years leading to the centennial. The medallion measures 30 mm (about 1 ¼”) in diameter. Artsmith Communications of Edmonton, Alberta designed the medallion.