February 15, 2005 OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- The Royal Canadian Mint introduced today the 2005 Brilliant Uncirculated Silver Dollar & Interactive CD-ROM gift set to commemorate the 40th Anniversary of the National Flag. 2005 also marks the 25th Anniversary of the official declaration of « O Canada » as the National Anthem. "These anniversaries are two important celebrations for Canadians in 2005," said David C. Dingwall, President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint. "The Mint is proud to take part in these celebrations by introducing this unique commemorative gift set that Canadians can cherish and share with their family." "The Canadian Flag and the National Anthem are true symbols of our Canadian identity," said the Honourable John McCallum, P.C., M.P., Minister of National Revenue and Minister responsible for the Royal Canadian Mint. "Through the years, those symbols have brought all Canadian citizens together without distinction of race, language, belief or opinion." Uniquely packaged, this gift set includes a Brilliant Uncirculated Silver Dollar along with an interactive CD-ROM. The 99.99% fine proof silver dollar, designed by Mint Engraver William Woodruff, depicts Canada's flag surrounded by the Parliament's Peace Tower and celebratory fireworks. The interactive CD-ROM includes a complete history of the Canadian Flag and various versions of the National Anthem in both official languages. This exclusive gift set is available for $34.95 CDN directly from the Mint at 1-800-267-1871 in Canada, 1-800-268-6468 in the US, or on the Internet at www.mint.ca. The gift set is also available at selected Canada Post outlets and retailers. The Royal Canadian Mint, an ISO 9001-2000 certified company, is the Crown Corporation responsible for the minting and distribution of Canada's circulation coins. In operation since 1908, the Royal Canadian Mint is recognized as one of the largest and most versatile mints in the world, offering a wide range of specialized, high quality coinage products and related services on an international scale. For more information on the Royal Canadian Mint, its products and services, visit www.mint.ca. - 30 - Pam Aung Thin Vice-President Communications Tel: (613) 993-5092 Tel: (613) 991-5342 Cellular: (613) 220-5096 E-mail: aungthin@mint.ca