Exploring Canadian Coins- Identifying the Silver Containing Coins in Canada’s Currency Collection
Which Canadian Coins Have Silver?
Canada, known for its rich natural resources and beautiful landscapes, has also made a name for itself in the world of coinage. Among the various coins minted by the Royal Canadian Mint, a select few contain silver. These coins not only serve as legal tender but also as collectibles for numismatists and investors alike. Let’s take a closer look at some of the Canadian coins that have silver content.
One of the most famous Canadian coins with silver content is the Canadian Silver Maple Leaf. Introduced in 1988, this coin has been a staple in the mint’s product line ever since. The Silver Maple Leaf is widely recognized for its high purity, with a .9999 fine silver content. The coin features a depiction of a maple leaf, Canada’s national symbol, on its reverse, while the obverse displays the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.
Another well-known silver coin from Canada is the Canadian Silver Dollar. Minted from 1858 to 1979, this coin was once the country’s largest circulating coin. The Silver Dollar contains .900 fine silver and has a diameter of 50 millimeters. The coin’s design has changed over the years, with various effigies of Queen Victoria and later Queen Elizabeth II appearing on the obverse.
The Canadian Silver Coinage Series, which includes the Silver Loonie and the Silver Toonie, is another set of popular silver coins. The Silver Loonie, introduced in 1987, has a diameter of 28.5 millimeters and contains .800 fine silver. The coin’s reverse features a loon, a bird native to Canada, while the obverse shows the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. The Silver Toonie, on the other hand, was minted from 1996 to 2013 and contains .995 fine silver. It has a diameter of 38.1 millimeters and features a polar bear on the reverse.
Lastly, the Canadian Silver Dollar (2017) is a special edition coin that commemorates the 150th anniversary of Confederation. This coin contains .9999 fine silver and has a diameter of 50 millimeters. The reverse of the coin features a majestic maple tree, symbolizing Canada’s strength and resilience.
In conclusion, Canada has a variety of silver coins that appeal to collectors and investors. From the iconic Silver Maple Leaf to the Canadian Silver Dollar and the special edition 2017 Silver Dollar, these coins showcase the country’s rich heritage and commitment to quality craftsmanship. Whether you’re looking to add a piece of Canadian history to your collection or invest in precious metals, these silver coins are certainly worth considering.
