The 25-cent Millennium coin chosen for issue in June 1999 was designed by Gordon Ho, a talented artist. His winning design in the Mint's "Create a Centsation Contest", entitled "From Coast to Coast", depicts an early 20th century steam engine. This design recognizes the thousands of workers who built the railway that connects our nation from coast to coast and truly symbolizes the unity that binds Canada's diversity.

Raised in Nepean, Ontario, Gordon's mother immigrated from Hong Kong and his father from China. His parents and sister have expressed great pride over his accomplishment. An avid artist, Gordon is a software test engineer with a diploma from the University of Waterloo. He is currently working on becoming a professional cartoonist, specializing in comic strips.

The launch ceremony for the coin took place on June 2, 1999 at the Salem & Hillsborough Railroad. This museum is located in the heart of picturesque Albert County near Moncton, New Brunswick.