On September 3, 2026, the Bank of Canada introduced a new vertical $20 banknote in Ottawa.. The currency features King Charles III and incorporates diverse symbols of Canadian identity and Indigenous heritage.
A Century of Monarchical Tradition from 1935 to Charles III
The inclusion of King Charles III follows a long-standing tradition of featuring the reigning monarch on Canadian currency, a practice that began with King George V in 1935. This transition comes after federal government instructions following the King's coronation in May 2023. The portrait, captured by British phtoographer Andrew Parsons, underwent a meticulous engraving process to ensure high-level security and artistic detail.
As reported by the Bank of Canada, this new design is the result of a three-year collaborative process involving technical experts and various stakeholder groups. This move represents a continuation of the central bank's recent shift toward vertical banknote layouts, marking a significant moment in the nation's numismatic history.
Sacred Plants and Provincial Flowers in a Green Design
The aesthetic of the new banknote utilizes a primary green color to reflect King Charles III's interest in environmentalism and gardening. Beyond the portrait, the note features a variety of symbols, including the Canadian National Vimy Memorial on the reverse side to commemorate the Battle of Vimy Ridge. According to the Bank of Canada, the design also incorporates the floral emblems of every province and territory, such as the Ontario trillium and the Manitoba prairie crocus.
To ensure authentic representation, an Indigenous advisory circle helped select four sacred plants for the design: braided sweetgrass, western redcedar, Arctic cotton, and wild strawberries. these elements are intended to represent the shared future and mutual respect of the Canadian people, providing a narrative that extends beyond the monarchy.
The Purple Security Stripe and Tactile Accessibility Features
Technological advancements make this $20 bill one of the most secure notes ever produced by the central bank. A new purple security stripe, the first of its kind in Canada, includes a three-dimensional magnifying glass that enlarges the number 20. Additionally, the note features a hidden maple leaf that appears when the bill is tilted and pulsating holographs of a poppy.
Accessibility was a key priority in the design process to assist citizens with visual impairments.. the Bank of Canada has included raised tactile elements on the word "Canada," the large number 20, and the portrait of King Charles III to make the currency easily identifiable by touch.
The Timeline for Replacing Queen Elizabeth II's Portrait
While the Bank of Canada has announced that the new notes will enter circulation early next year, several details regarding the transition remain unconfirmed. The report does not specify the exact date when the previous banknotes featuring the late Queen Elizabeth II will be officially withdrawn from circulation. Furthermore, it is unclear how the central bank plans to manage the logistical rollout across all provinces and territories or what the total cost of this three-year design and production process will be.
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