What do Terry Fox, Alexander Graham Bell, and Emily Carr have in common?
One of them could soon be the latest Canadian legend enshrined on currency.
The Bank of Canada is accepting nominations to determine which iconic Canadian should be on the next $5 bank note.
The competition was first announced on January 10th, and on January 29th, the bank outlined the rules and regulations for nominations.
According to the Bank of Canada, nominees must be Canadian — either by birth or naturalization — and have demonstrated “outstanding leadership, achievement, or distinction in any field, benefiting the people of Canada, or in the service of Canada.”
There are, of course, many people who fit that description. But to narrow the search down, the Bank of Canada says the person must have been deceased for at least 25 years, or before March 11, 1995.
Unfortunately, that means living legends like Chris Hadfield, Christine Sinclair, or Celine Dión are out of the picture.
Older heroes like Terry Fox or Lucy Maud Montgomery are in the running, though.
See more: The Bank of Canada wants Canadians to decide who will be on the next $5 bill
Finally, there is one more criterion — perhaps the most important of all: “They are not a fictional character.”
Sorry, Caillou and Yvon (of the Yukon). Maybe you’ll make the $20?
Nominations are open until March 11th, 2020, and one submission can have up to five names on it. People can also submit ideas for the new bill more than once.
“You can also explain why you nominated an individual and provide images or symbols you associate with them,” the bank writes.
So start thinking of your favourite Canadians and click here to name your choice! Who knows — maybe your wallet will feature your nomination in a few years’ time!
