 |
|
|
|
|
  
|
Smith's birthday coin Paul Bickford Northern News Services Published Monday, November 14, 2011
"I think it's important to recognize that the town has come a long way in 45 years and this is one way of recognizing it," said Mayor Janie Hobart. The town was incorporated on Oct. 1, 1966, and there were a host of recent activities in the community to recall that important event. The coin officially went on sale Nov. 9 with a ceremonial launch. The first person to buy one was former mayor Harry Sudom. Hobart said the commemorative coin is a more substantive way to mark the town's anniversary of incorporation than some of the other activities held throughout October, such as fireworks, a cemetery cleanup, coffee houses and more. "This is something we will continue throughout the year," she said of the coin. It will be offered for sale until Oct. 1, 2012. "It's a $5 coin and the bulk of the merchants have already agreed to accept it as legal tender in Fort Smith," Hobart noted. After Oct. 1, 2012, merchants can return coins that may still be in circulation to the Town of Fort Smith for redemption. The coins can be purchased at Town Hall, at the Rec Centre, at the bank and at larger retail stores in the community. "Some people will use it just like they would a $5 coin, but other people will probably save it or give it as a gift," Hobart said. "There are people that collect things like this." The town has produced 3,000 of the coins, which are made of a base metal with an antique nickel finish. They feature the town crest on one side and recognize the 45th anniversary on the other side. Hobart said she personally likes the coin. "It's turned out well." Plus, she noted the reaction has been very positive from council, businesses and the town's Tourism and Trade Advisory Board, which all got a look at the coin before its official launch. "Everyone that I've shown it to has thought it's just a great idea," said the mayor.
|
