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History of the RCMP Dog Sled Patrol

History of the RCMP Dog Sled Patrol

At Colonial Acres, we offer many coins from Canada and around the world, but we are especially pleased to present brilliant uncirculated coins that commemorate the proud history of our country. One such offering is the 1994 coin commemorating the 25th anniversary of the last dog sled patrol made by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, in 1969.

1994 $1 RCMP Northern Dog Team Patrol Uncirculated Silver Coin

1994 $1 RCMP Northern Dog Team Patrol Uncirculated Silver Coin

This beautiful uncirculated sterling silver dollar coin features an image of a dog team led by an RCMP officer on one side and the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on the other. The Royal Canadian Mint has produced many collectible coins featuring sled dogs, but this one stands out due to the history behind it.

2013 $10 O Canada Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Royal Canadian Mounted Police Sled Dog Patrols

Although the RCMP are known for being mounted on horseback, dog sleds were needed in the winter months for patrols through the remote areas of the Yukon. These patrols often served as the only contact that people in those areas had with the outside world for months during the harsh weather. The patrols would enforce game laws and check on inhabitants who were in isolated cabins.

Royal Mail Delivery

In addition to any law-keeping duties, the RCMP dog sled patrols also delivered mail to residents in northern areas. In the later part of the 1890s, they delivered mail along the 965 kilometres between Dawson and Skagway, travelling over trails as well as over the frozen Yukon river. In the winter of 1898-1899 alone, more than 6.5 tons of mail were delivered, corresponding to sledding over more than 100,000 kilometres. Receiving mail was important to these residents as it was their only connection to what was happening in the world.

The Last Patrol

As new modes of transportation and communication were developed, the dog sled patrols were no longer necessary. The last run was undertaken in 1969 from Old Crow in the Yukon to Fort MacPherson in the Northwest Territories and back. It covered more than 500 miles and used two teams and twenty-one dogs. Although the dog sleds are no longer used, there is no doubt that the brave Mounties with their pups provided a vital lifeline to Northern Canadian residents for decades.

Dog Sleds in Canada

Sled dogs have been around for thousands of years, and it's thought that ancient versions of our modern sled dogs helped humans to survive in the Arctic. Throughout Canadian history, sled dogs were instrumental to survival as well, hauling goods into remote areas, as well as carrying trade goods such as furs and gold. With such a close connection to our country’s past, the Royal Canadian Mint has put out many coins to commemorate these special animals, including the following:

Colonial Acres Coins has its own history, stemming from the boyhood hobby of two neighbourhood friends. For thirty years, we have taken our love of coins and shared it with others, looking for items that will bring joy to our fellow collectors. If you’re interested in any of our dog sled team coins or have a specific item you’re looking for, give us a call or fill out our contact form. We are happy to answer all your numismatic questions.

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