First issued in 2006, British Columbia in Blue is coin number one in what will be a five coin set to be completed in 2010.

These five coins will feature original art created by local Victoria First Nation artist Tom Spetter. A Tla-o-qui-aht band member with over 15 years of experience working in Advertising Agencies and Communications Firms, Tom is now the owner of his own design studio and uses his background and unique skills to bring a strong focus to his art, which is a contemporary reflection of his heritage.

Orcas are seen in resident and transient pods on BC’s coast and so it is fitting that the magnificent orca was chosen for the BC in Blue coin. Traditional and First Nation orcas appear to breach from the blue ring representative of the Pacific Ocean, Straits and Inside Passage where these orca feed, play and transit.

The reverse of the BC in Blue was designed by Chris Edley, Victoria graphic artist. This side features 3D art of the Fraser Valley, Chilliwack River and in the distance – an eagle soaring overhead. Chris’ work is seen through the province on many of BC Parks interpretive and map signs created over the years by his company Edley Imagineering Inc. in alliance with Edley Maps & Graphics Inc.