Rare Canadian Coins

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Rare Canadian Coins Average ratng: 6,2/10 621 reviews

Calgary Coin offers an extensive selection of Canadian 10 cent coins for sale on the internet and in my store here in Calgary. I usually have most dates available in a variety of grades and prices for collectors at all levels, usually priced at a discount from the Canadian Coin News trend sheet price guide.

I normally do not provide images my coins as I have thousands of coins, sometimes multiples of the same coin. Imaging even a tiny percent of them would be impossible and putting that many images on my web pages would make them difficult to download, plus for inexpensive coins the value to the time to create the images would far exceed the value of the coins. I grade conservatively, describing any significant defects, including minor ones many dealers would not mention. If you ever receive a coin from me that you are not satisfied with, please feel free to return it for a full refund.

Get the best deals on rare canadian coins when you shop the largest online selection at eBay.com. Free shipping on many items Browse your favorite brands affordable prices. 10 RARE CANADIAN DOLLAR COINS WORTH MONEY - VALUABLE FOREIGN COINS TO LOOK FOR!! We look at low mintage Canada Dollar Coins that are worth money. With less than 10,000 pieces believed to have been made, the 1973 Large Bust quarter is one of the more popular rare Canadian coins. In 1973, to commemorate the 100th birthday of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the mint produced hundreds of millions of quarters that depicted a Mountie on horseback.

For those unfamiliar with the grade (quality) descriptions preceding each price, they are discussed on my Canadian Coin Introduction Page.

Prices are in Canadian Dollars

SHORTCUTS TO SECTIONS

Victoria, 1858-1901
Edward VII, 1902-1910
George V, 1911-1936

Rare Canadian Coins Today

George VI, 1937-1952
Elizabeth, 1953-1989
Elizabeth, 1990-2012

QUEEN VICTORIA
AD 1837 - 1901

Young Head

The young head Victorian coins, struck in 1858, were prior to Canadian Confederation, and are British Colonial issues of the Province of Canada.

Rare Canadian Coins
(image of 1858 to 1901 type only)

1858 10 cent

There are re-punched date varieties in 1858 with the most interesting one originally punch into the die as 1558 then an 8 was punched over the first 5. Two small horns formed by the top of the 5 remain visible but can be weak. Often there is a die break just above the 8.

  1. 1858 ............................... holed G-4 $ 5.00
  2. 1858 ........................... edge mark G-4 $12.00
  3. 1858 .................................... VG-8 $32.00
  4. 1858 ... no toning ................ CCCS XF-45 $200.00
  5. 1858 ................... NGC 2047793-016 XF-45 $200.00
  6. 1858 ........ mid gold tone PCGS 6271319 mS-62 $640.00

1858 Blundered I

A rare and distinctive 1858 variety is the blundered I. To the upper left of the I in DEI, just to the left of Victoria's head, and I is punched overlaping the rim, most likely before the I in DEI was punched in the correct position.

  1. 1858 Blundered I .................. ICCS AU-50 SOLD

No Canadian 10 cents were struck from 1859 to 1869. When they resume in 1870 the young head type of the 1858 issue was used and continues though out the Victorian issues on both 5 and 10 cents, which a crowned head design was adopted for the 1, 25 and 50 cents.

1870 10 cent

1870 10 cents are the first date of 10 cents struck after Confederation. The wide versus narrow 0 refers to the thickness of the lines forming the 0, not the actual width of the 0.

  1. 1870 wide 0 ....................... ICCS VF-20 $160.00
  2. 1870 wide 0 ... I feel this is really a VF-30
    ............. NGC 2773388-030 (as XF-45) VF-30 $200.00
  3. 1870 narrow 0 ............... toned ICCS VF-20 $97.50
  4. 1870 narrow 0 ..................... ICCS XF-45 $200.00
  5. 1870 narrow 0 .......................... XF-45 $200.00

1871 10 cent

  1. 1871 ..................................... G-6 $33.50

1871 H 10 cent

  1. 1871 H ............................. ICCS F-15 $128.50
  2. 1871 H .... PCGS 60053139 Doaktown Hoard VF-20 $160.00
  3. 1871 H less tone than imagePCGS 37495829 AU-53 $550.00

1872 H 10 cent

  1. 1872 H .................................. VG-8 SOLD

No Canadian 10 cents were struck in 1873.

1874 H 10 cent

  1. 1874 H ........................ dark areas G-6 $17.50
  2. 1874 H ............................. ICCS F-15 $56.00
  3. 1874 H ...................... toned ICCS VF-30 $105.00
  4. 1874 H .. lightly cleaned XF-40 ... ICCS VF-30 $105.00
  5. 1874 H ................................. XF-40 $155.00
  6. 1874 H ............................ ICCS XF-40 $145.00
  7. 1874 H ............................ ICCS AU-50 $240.00

  8. 1874 H mint error, off center about 10% with a
    distinct raised lip below the Queen ..... G-6 $600.00

1875 H 10 cent

  1. 1875 H ................... PCGS 31770760 AU-55 $5200.00

No Canadian 10 cents were struck from 1876 to 1879.

1880 H 10 cent

  1. 1880 H too worn to determine obverse .... aG-3 $10.00
  2. 1880 H obverse 1 ......................... G-4 SOLD
  3. 1880 H obverse 2 .................. ICCS VF-20 SOLD
  4. 1880 H obverse 3 ........... slightly bent G-4 SOLD

1881 H 10 cent

  1. 1881 H .................................. aG-3 SOLD

1882 H 10 cent

The 1882 10 cent only occurs with Obverse 3.

  1. 1882 H ................................... G-4 $17.00
  2. 1882 H ........................... damaged G-6 $ 6.50
  3. 1882 H ................................... G-6 $25.00
  4. 1882 H ............................. ICCS F-15 $74.00
  5. 1882 H ............................ ICCS VF-30 $142.50

1883 H 10 cent

  1. 1883 H ................................... G-4 SOLD

1884 10 cent

  1. 1884 . lighter than image, PCGS 80855324 XF-40 $2250.00

1885 10 cent

  1. 1885 obverse 4 ...................... G-4/aG-3 $28.00
  2. 1885 obverse 4 ...................... ICCS G-6 $67.50
  3. 1885 obverse 4 .............. light marks VG-8 $89.50
  4. 1885 obverse 5 ...................... ICCS G-4 $65.00
  5. 1885 obverse 5 .................... ICCS VG-10 $195.00
  6. 1885 obverse 5 ..................... ICCS F-15 $345.00

1886 10 cent

  1. 1886 large knobbed 6, obverse 4 ......... aG-3 SOLD
  2. 1886 large knobbed 6, obverse 5 . scratch VG-8 SOLD
  3. 1886 small 6, obverse 5 ................. aG-3 SOLD
  4. 1886 small 6/6, obverse 5 . lt tone ICCS VF-20 SOLD

1887 10 cent

  1. 1887 ........................ light marks F-15 $160.00

1888 10 cent

  1. 1888 ......................... toned ICCS F-15 $60.00

1889 10 cent

1889 dimes are one the rarer Canadian coins, in my experience about four times rarer than 1921 5 cents. It's reported mintage of about 600,000 is the highest of all dates between 1883 and 1890 so the reason for it's rarity is a mystery. It is very unlikely a large hoard of them is hidden away somewhere, leaving a few possibilities that might make sense. The most likely is the report mintage is incorrect due to either a simple recording error, or at the end of 1888 the Royal Mint had left over 1888 dies used in 1889 to strike 10 cents dated 1888. This would explain why 1888 10 cents are more common than their mintage suggest they should be. A similar situation exists in the 1889 5 cent where the mintage is higher than either 1888 or 1890, yet the coins are rarer than either.

  1. 1889 ..................... PCGS 36563064 VF-35 $4750.00
  2. 1889 ........ once cleaned, now re-toned XF-40 $5250.00

1890 H 10 cent

  1. 1890 H ........................... aG-3/FAIR-2 SOLD

1891 10 cent

  1. 1891 21 leaves ... barely read date G-4/FAIR-2 SOLD
  2. 1891 22 leaves ..................... ICCS F-15 $90.00
  3. 1891 22 leaves .................... ICCS VF-20 $120.00

1892 10 cent

There is a rare variety of 1892 10 cent which has a large 9 and 2/1, sometimes simply referred to as the large 9 as all examples of the large 9 are also 2/1.

  1. 1892 obverse 5 small 9 ................... G-6 $24.00
  2. 1892 obverse 6 .......................... F-12 SOLD

1893 10 cent

The 3 in the date of 1893 dimes can be either a flat or rounded toped. The flat top is slightly scarce, but the round top 3 examples are rare and seldom seen in high grade. The 3 on most 1893 round top dimes will nearly always be much weaker than the other digits.

  1. 1893 flat top 3 obv. 5 ................... G-6 $60.00
  2. 1893 flat top 3 obv. 6 ......... cleaned XF-40 $280.00
  3. 1893 flat top 3 obv. 6, 9/9 1/1 .. toned XF-40 SOLD
  4. 1893 RT very strong 3 (strongest I have seen)
    .mid to slightly dark tone PCGS 38420838 VF-35 SOLD

1894 10 cent

  1. 1894 obverse 5 ........................... G-6 $40.00
  2. 1894 obverse 5 .................... ICCS VF-30 $300.00
  3. 1894 obverse 6 ...................... G-4/aG-3 $20.00
  4. 1894 obverse 6 ........................... G-4 $24.00
  5. 1894 obverse 6 ........................... G-6 $36.00
  6. 1894 obverse 6 ......................... VF-30 $215.00
  7. 1894 obverse 6 4/4 ....................... G-6 SOLD

No Canadian 10 cents were struck in 1895.

1896 10 cent

  1. 1896 obverse 5 .................... ICCS VF-20 SOLD
  2. 1896 obverse 6 .......................... aG-3 $ 8.00
  3. 1896 obverse 6 ............ medium toned VF-20 $60.00
  4. 1896 obv. 6, harshly cleaned, toned ICCS VF-30 $48.00
  5. 1896 obverse 6 ......................... VF-30 $90.00
  6. 1896 obverse 6 ......... lightly cleaned XF-40 $92.50
  7. 1896 obverse 6 ......................... XF-45 $170.00

No Canadian 10 cents were struck in 1897.

1898 10 cent

  1. 1898 obverse 5 ................... scratch G-6 SOLD
  2. 1898 obverse 6 ........................... G-4 $11.00
  3. 1898 obverse 6 ..... scrapes & scratches VG-10 $10.00

1899 10 cent

  1. 1899 small 9's .......................... aG-3 $ 5.00
  2. 1899 small 9's ........................... G-4 $ 8.00
  3. 1899 small 9's .......................G-6/aG-3 $ 7.25
  4. 1899 small 9's .................... bent VG-10 $ 8.00
  5. 1899 small 9's ..................... ICCS F-15 $40.00
  6. 1899 large 9's .................... ICCS VF-20 $110.00

1900 10 cent

  1. 1900 ..................................... G-4 $ 5.00
  2. 1900 .............................. ICCS VF-30 $65.00

1901 10 cent

  1. 1901 ..................................... G-4 $ 7.25
  2. 1901 ........................... cleaned XF-40 $60.00
  3. 1901 ........... I feel this is really a AU-50
    ............. NGC 3712171-012 (as AU-55) AU-50 $140.00

EDWARD VII
AD 1902 - 1910


(image of 1902 to 1910 type only

1902 10 cent

  1. 1902 ......... light tone, PCGS 20777854 AU-50 $100.00

1902 H 10 cent

  1. 1902 H ................................... G-4 $ 5.00
  2. 1902 H ..... attractive tone ...... ICCS MS-64 $560.00
  3. 1902 H ....... nice tone, PCGS 36246408 MS-64+ $800.00

1903 10 cent

  1. 1903 .............................. ICCS XF-45 SOLD

1903 H 10 cent

  1. 1903 H .................. mid toned ICCS VF-20 $40.00
  2. 1903 H .................. mid toned ICCS VF-30 $62.50
  3. 1903 H ............................ ICCS MS-65 $2950.00

1904 10 cent

  1. 1904 ..................................... G-4 SOLD

1905 10 cent

  1. 1905 ..................... PCGS 37495822 XF-45 $155.00
Rare Canadian Coins

1906 10 cent

  1. 1906 ..................................... G-4 $ 5.50
  2. 1906 ........................... scratches G-6 $ 4.00
  3. 1906 ......................... dark toned F-15 $24.00
  4. 1906 .............................. ICCS VF-30 $56.00

1907 10 cent

  1. 1907 ..................................... G-4 $ 5.00

The Royal Canadian Mint opened in Ottawa in 1908, after which nearly all Canadian coins were minted in Canada. While the designs remained the same, the die axis for was changed from 'coinage' to 'medal', except for the 1 cent coins which had always been made at medal axis. Coinage die axis means that if you place your fingers above and below the portrait then spin the coin around the other side comes out upside down. Medal axis means it comes out the same way up.

1908 10 cent

  1. 1908 ............................... toned G-4 SOLD

1909 Victorian leaf 10 cent

10 cents struck earlier in 1909 have the same Victorian leaves used on earlier dates with subdued veins and some leaves slightly smaller than on the later Edwardian leaf type (also known as the Broad leaf). If you need to compare, all before 1908 have this Victorian leaf type.

  1. 1909 Victorian leaf ...................... G-6 SOLD

1909 Edwardian leaf 10 cent

Later in 1909 the leaf design was changed to what is known as either the Edwardian leaf or the Broad lead design. The leaves were made slightly larger with more pronounced veins If you need to compare, all 1910 to 1912 10 cents are all this Edwardian (broad) leaf type.

  1. 1909 Edwardian (broad) leaf, cleaned ICCS F-15 $58.00

1910 10 cent

  1. 1910 ..................................... G-4 $ 4.50
  2. 1910 ..................................... G-6 $ 5.00
  3. 1910 ............................. toned VF-20 $20.00
  4. 1910 .............................. ICCS XF-45 $58.00

GEORGE V
AD 1911 - 1936

(image of 1911 Godless type only)

1911 10 cent

George V coins were introduced in 1911 with 'DEI GRATIA', Latin for 'God's Grace', omitted from the obverse inscription. There was a public outrage against these 'godless coins' and in 1912 'DEI GRATIA' again appeared on all Canadian coins.

  1. 1911 Godless ................... scratch VF-20 $18.00
  2. 1911 Godless ........................... VF-30 $38.00
  3. 1911 Godless ...................... ICCS XF-40 $52.50

(image of 1912 to 1936 type only)

1912 10 cent

In 1912 the 'DEI GRATIA' again appears on the obverse inscription of all Canadian coins.

  1. 1912 .................................... VG-8 $ 4.00
  2. 1912 ................................... VF-30 $19.50
  3. 1912 ................................... AU-50 $80.00
  4. 1912 ............................. toned AU-50 $80.00
  5. 1912 .............................. ICCS AU-55 $135.00
  6. 1912 ..................... PCGS 37355158 AU-55 $140.00

1913 Broad Leaf 10 cent

Early 1913 10 cent coins have the broad (Edwardian) leaf design introduced in 1909 but are a scarce variety this year as later in the year a new small leaf design was introduced.

  1. 1913 broad leaf ..................... G-6/aG-3 $72.00
  2. 1913 broad leaf ..................... ICCS G-6 $98.00
  3. 1913 broad leaf ....... nice toning ICCS XF-40 $1150.00
  4. 1913 broad leaf ........ lightly cleaned AU-50 $2400.00
  5. 1913 broad leaf .......... PCGS 07687145 AU-55 $4800.00

1913 10 cent

A new small leaf design was introducted in 1913 with most 10 cents of this year struck with this type. The leaves were re-designed smaller, with less veining and a wider gap between the leaves and the rim and are similar to the older Victorian leaf design but not exactly. This new design was used until 1936.

  1. 1913 .................................... VG-8 $ 4.00
  2. 1913 ...................... nicely toned AU-50 $72.50

1914 10 cent

  1. 1914 .................................... VG-8 $ 5.00
  2. 1914 ................................... VG-10 $ 5.25
  3. 1914 .................................... F-12 $ 5.50
  4. 1914 ........................ rim damage XF-40 $ 8.00
  5. 1914 ................................... AU-50 $67.50

1915 10 cent

  1. 1915 .............................. marks VG-8 $ 5.00
  2. 1915 ........................... scratch VG-10 $ 6.50
  3. 1915 .................................... F-15 $32.00

1916 10 cent

  1. 1916 .................................... F-15 $ 5.00
  2. 1916 ........................ minor marks F-15 $ 4.50
  3. 1916 ................................... VF-20 $ 5.50

1917 10 cent

  1. 1917 .................................... VG-8 $ 3.50
  2. 1917 ................................... VF-30 $ 8.00

1918 10 cent

  1. 1918 .................................... VG-8 $ 3.50
  2. 1918 .............................. ICCS AU-58 $50.00
  3. 1918 ..... mid to dark tone ....... ICCS MS-65 $360.00

1919 10 cent

  1. 1919 .................................... VG-8 $ 3.50
  2. 1919 ................................... VF-20 $ 5.00
  3. 1919 ............................. toned VF-20 $ 5.00
  4. 1919 ......................... scratches XF-45 $20.00
  5. 1919 ................................... XF-45 $20.00
  6. 1919 ........................... cleaned AU-55 $28.00

While the designs did not change, in 1920 the alloy was reduced from 92.5% silver to 80% silver. The size and weight remain the same as the earlier issued.

1920 10 cent

  1. 1920 ....................... spotty tone XF-45 $20.00
  2. 1920 .............................. ICCS AU-50 $40.00
  3. 1920 .............................. ICCS AU-55 $54.50

1921 10 cent

  1. 1921 .................................... F-15 SOLD

No Canadian 10 cent coins were struck from 1922 to 1927 but this is the last gap as they have been struck continuously since 1928.

1928 10 cent

  1. 1928 .................................... F-12 $ 4.50
  2. 1928 .................................... F-15 $ 5.00

1929 10 cent

  1. 1929 .................................... VG-8 $ 3.50
  2. 1929 ................................... VF-20 $ 5.00
  3. 1929 ......................... nice tone VF-20 $ 5.00
  4. 1929 .............................. ICCS AU-50 $36.00

1930 10 cent

  1. 1930 .................................... VG-8 $ 3.50
  2. 1930 ................................... VG-10 $ 4.00
  3. 1930 ................................... VF-30 $11.50
  4. 1930 ......................... nice tone AU-50 $45.00
  5. 1930 .............................. ICCS AU-50 $45.00

1931 10 cent

  1. 1931 .................................... VG-8 $ 3.50
  2. 1931 .................................... F-12 $ 4.50
  3. 1931 .................................... F-15 $ 5.00
  4. 1931 ............................ scuffs VF-20 $ 5.00
  5. 1931 ................................... VF-30 $10.00
  6. 1931 .............................. ICCS AU-55 $52.50

1932 10 cent

  1. 1932 .................................... VG-8 $ 3.50
  2. 1932 ...................... toning spots VF-20 $12.00
  3. 1932 ................................... VF-30 $22.00
  4. 1932 .... slightly rotated dies ... ICCS XF-40 $32.00

1933 10 cent

  1. 1933 .................................... VG-8 $ 4.00
  2. 1933 ................................... VG-10 $ 5.00

1934 10 cent

  1. 1934 .................................... VG-8 $ 5.00
  2. 1934 .............................. spot VF-20 $24.00
  3. 1934 ................................... VF-20 $24.00
  4. 1934 .............................. ICCS VF-30 $48.00

1935 10 cent

  1. 1935 .................................... VG-8 $ 5.00
  2. 1935 .................................... F-12 $ 8.00

1936 10 cent

Some 1936 10 cents have a die break between wreath ties below the date, and are known as the 'BAR' type. This die break started off very weak and grew stronger over time, but in order to considered the bar type, the die break must be strong and clear. Bar types in ICCS holders will not always have the variety designated on the holders.

  1. 1936 .................................... VG-8 $ 3.50
  2. 1936 ................................... VG-10 $ 4.00
  3. 1936 .................................... F-12 $ 4.50
  4. 1936 .............................. spots F-15 $ 4.00
  5. 1936 .................................... F-15 $ 4.75
  6. 1936 ......................... nice tone VF-30 $ 7.00
  7. 1936 ................................... VF-30 $ 7.00
  8. 1936 ........................ light tone XF-40 $10.00
  9. 1936 .............................. ICCS AU-50 $32.50
  10. 1936 .............................. ICCS AU-55 $45.00
  11. 1936 bar ........ (grade only) .... ICCS VF-30 SOLD

GEORGE VI
AD 1937 - 1952

(image of 1937 to 1947 type only)

1937 10 cent

  1. 1937 .................................... F-12 $ 3.50
  2. 1937 ................................... VF-30 $ 5.00
  3. 1937 ................................... XF-40 $ 5.50

1938 10 cent

  1. 1938 .................................... F-12 $ 3.50
  2. 1938 ................... very dark toned AU-50 $28.00
  3. 1938 ................................... AU-50 $28.00
  4. 1938 .............................. ICCS MS-60 $60.00
  5. 1938 ......................... nice tone MS-63 $100.00
  6. 1938 Double 193 ................... ICCS MS-63 SOLD

1939 10 cent

  1. 1939 ................................... VF-30 SOLD
  2. 1939 re engraved date ....... light tone XF-40 SOLD

1940 10 cent

Some 1940 10 cents are strongly doubled along the bottom of the '1' and nearly all of the '9' which I refer to as the re-engraved (or 'RE') variety. The amount of doubling varies from coin to coin so sometimes I will simply describe how much is doubled.

  1. 1940 ................................... vf-20 $ 3.50
  2. 1940 ...................... light toning XF-40 $ 5.00
  3. 1940 ....................... dark toning XF-40 $ 5.00
  4. 1940 double 1940 ............ ICCS cameo MS-64 SOLD

1941 10 cent

Some 1941 10 cents are also strongly doubled of the bottom of the 1 and much of the 9, which I refer to as the re-engraved variety, which Hans Zoell included as his #R263b.

  1. 1941 ........................ blue toned XF-40 $10.00
  2. 1941 re-engraved ...... Zoell R263b .... VF-20 SOLD

1942 10 cent

Although not listed in the CCN trend sheet, just as for some of the previous dates some 1942 10 cents have doubling on the 1 and 9 and are thus re-engraved date varieties.

  1. 1942 ................................... VF-30 SOLD

1943 10 cent

  1. 1943 ................................... VF-20 $ 3.50
  2. 1943 ................................... VF-30 $ 4.25
  3. 1943 ..................... light scratch XF-40 $ 3.50
  4. 1943 ................................... XF-40 $ 5.00
  5. 1943 ......................... nice tone XF-40 $ 5.00
  6. 1943 ................................... XF-45 $ 6.00
  7. 1943 ................................... AU-50 $ 8.00
  8. 1943 ........................ light tone AU-50 $ 8.00
  9. 1943 ................................... MS-60 $20.00
  10. 1943 ........................ light tone MS-62 $24.00
  11. 1943 ................................... MS-63 $32.00
  12. 1943 .............................. ICCS MS-63 $32.00

1944 10 cent

  1. 1944 ................................... AU-50 $11.50

1945 10 cent

  1. 1945 ................................... VF-20 $ 3.50
  2. 1945 ................................... VF-30 $ 4.25
  3. 1945 ................................... XF-40 $ 5.00
  4. 1945 ....................... light toned XF-40 $ 5.00
  5. 1945 .............................. ICCS MS-63 $32.00
  6. 1945 .............................. ICCS MS-65 $200.00

1946 10 cent

  1. 1946 .................................... F-15 $ 4.00
  2. 1946 ................................... VF-30 $ 5.00
  3. 1946 .............................. ICCS AU-50 $14.00

1947 10 cent

  1. 1947 ................................... VF-20 $ 5.00
  2. 1947 ......................... nice tone XF-40 $ 8.00
  3. 1947 ................................... MS-63 $60.00
  4. 1947 ................................... MS-65 $360.00

Because India received its independence in 1947 'IND IMP' (India's Emperor) had to be removed from all British Commonwealth coins dated after 1947. The new designs were prepared in England and those for Canada were not ready until late in 1948. New coins were needed so for the first part of 1948 coins were struck dated 1947 with a small maple leaf after the date indicating minted in 1948.

1947 MAPLE LEAF 10 cent

  1. 1947 ML ................................ VF-20 $ 3.50
  2. 1947 ML ................................ VF-30 $ 4.25
  3. 1947 ML .................... slight tone VF-30 $ 4.25
  4. 1947 ML ................ minor scratches XF-40 $ 4.00
  5. 1947 ML ..................... light tone XF-40 $ 5.00
  6. 1947 ML ................................ XF-40 $ 5.00
  7. 1947 ML ................................ XF-45 $ 5.25
  8. 1947 ML ................................ AU-50 $ 6.50
  9. 1947 ML .................... light toned AU-50 $ 6.50
  10. 1947 ML ................................ MS-60 $14.50
  11. 1947 ML double date ... ICCS Double 194, MS-60 SOLD

POST 1947 INSCRIPTIONS

Rare Canadian Coins
(image of 1948 to 1952 type only)

1948 10 cent

1948 was the lowest mintage 10 cent of that era which until 1980 were considerably scarcer than other dates. The silver melt of 1980 saw large numbers of silver 10 cents destroyed but 1948's were saved so that by 1981 the relative rarity diminished and today they only slightly scarcer than the others.

  1. 1948 ............................. toned VF-20 SOLD

1949 10 cent

  1. 1949 ................................... VF-20 $ 3.50
  2. 1949 ................................... XF-40 $ 5.00
  3. 1949 ................................... XF-45 $ 5.50
  4. 1949 ............................. toned AU-50 $ 6.50

1950 10 cent

  1. 1950 ................................... VF-20 $ 3.50
  2. 1950 ................................... XF-40 $ 5.00
  3. 1950 ................................... XF-45 $ 5.50
  4. 1950 ........................ light tone AU-50 $ 5.75
  5. 1950 ............................. toned AU-55 $ 8.50
  6. 1950 ........................ light tone MS-62 $48.00

1951 10 cent

Some 1951 10 cents have varying degrees of reverse doubling, from a single digit in the date to considerably doubling over the entire reverse. When there is considerable doubling these are known as the 'double die' type. When there is lesser doubling I will describe what is doubled. As the degree of doubling varies from coin to coin, this probably results from a loose die bouncing slightly after each strike, rather than doubling on the die itself.

  1. 1951 ................................... XF-40 $ 3.50

1952 10 cent

  1. 1952 ................................... XF-40 SOLD

ELIZABETH II
AD 1953 - PRESENT

Young Head Series

(image of 1953 to 1964 type only)

1953 NSS 10 cent

The early 1953 dies had the shoulder fold weakly cut so the shoulder fold was usual not present, although on some well struck examples you may see a trace of it. This made the Queen's shoulder appeared bare which many people thought to be inappropriate. Known as the No Shoulder Strap (NSS) or No Shoulder Fold (NSF) variety, the easiest way to determine these is by the strong serifs at the top and bottom of the I's in II and DEI on the obverse.

  1. 1953 NSS ..................... blue tone AU-50 SOLD

1953 SS 10 cent

Later in 1953 the dies were re-designed with a deeper shoulder fold which usually will be visible on the coin, although not on some weaker strikes. Known as the Shoulder Strap (SS) or Shoulder Fold (SF) variety, the easiest way to be certain of this variety is because the serifs at the top and bottom of the I's on the obverse are much smaller to the point the I's nearly appear straight. This is especially needed on more worn examples.

  1. 1953 SS ................................ XF-40 $ 4.50

1954 10 cent

  1. 1954 ........................ toned PROOF-LIKE $45.00
  2. 1954 .............................. ICCS PL-64 $45.00
  3. 1954 .............................. ICCS PL-65 $52.50
  4. 1954 .................. ICCS Heavy Cameo PL-65 $95.00
  5. 1954 ......... lightly toning ICCS cameo PL-66 $117.50

1955 10 cent

  1. 1955 .................. ICCS heavy cameo PL-64 $40.50
  2. 1955 ........................ ICCS cameo PL-65 $40.50
  3. 1955 ....................... heavy cameo PL-65 $52.00
  4. 1955 ........................ ICCS cameo PL-66 $77.50
  5. 1955 ...... peripheral toning ICCS cameo PL-66 $77.50

1956 10 cent

One 1956 die developed a small pit centered just below the 9 and 5 resulting in a small raised dot on the coins. The position of the dot makes it look intentional and these are collected as a recognized variety. Small dots occur below the date in a number of different places in 1956, but there is only one type recognized as the official dot variety, which is clearly illustrated in the Charlton Standard Catalogue of Canadian Coins.

  1. 1956 ................................... MS-60 $ 4.50
  2. 1956 ........................ ICCS cameo PL-64 $22.00
  3. 1956 ........................ cameo PROOF-LIKE $22.00
  4. 1956 ........................ ICCS cameo PL-65 $26.00
  5. 1956 DOT ................ red/blue toned MS-63 $24.00
  6. 1956 DOT .................... trace tone MS-64 $40.00
  7. 1956 DOT .................... dark toned MS-65 $120.00

1957 10 cent

  1. 1957 ................................... MS-60 $ 3.50
  2. 1957 ................................... MS-62 $ 4.50
  3. 1957 ................... light gold tone MS-63 $ 5.00
  4. 1957 .............................. ICCS MS-65 $24.00
  5. 1957 ........................ toned ICCS PL-66 $32.00

1958 10 cent

  1. 1958 ........................ light tone MS-60 $ 3.50
  2. 1958 ....................... nicely tone MS-60 $ 3.50
  3. 1958 ................................... MS-62 $ 4.00
  4. 1958 ................................... MS-63 $ 5.00
  5. 1958 ....................... nicely tone MS-63 $ 5.00
  6. 1958 ................. ultra cameo, PROOF-LIKE $160.00

1959 10 cent

  1. 1959 ................................... MS-60 $ 3.50

1960 10 cent

  1. 1960 ................................... MS-63 $ 4.00
  2. 1960 ................................... MS-64 $10.00
  3. 1960 ................................... MS-65 $24.00
  4. 1960 ........... light toning ICCS cameo PL-66 $24.00
Coins

1961 10 cent

  1. 1961 ........................ blue tone MS-64 SOLD

1962 10 cent

  1. 1962 ................................... MS-62 $ 3.50
  2. 1962 ................................... MS-63 $ 4.00
  3. 1962 ................................... MS-64 $ 8.00
  4. 1962 .............................. ICCS MS-65 $20.00
  5. 1962 ........................ toned ICCS MS-65 $20.00

1963 10 cent

  1. 1963 ................................... MS-62 $ 3.00
  2. 1963 ................................... MS-63 $ 3.50
  3. 1963 ....................... toning spot MS-64 $ 6.50
  4. 1963 ................................... MS-64 $ 6.50
  5. 1963 ................................... MS-65 $16.00

1964 10 cent

  1. 1964 ............................. cameo MS-62 $ 4.00
  2. 1964 ................................... MS-63 $ 3.50
  3. 1964 ......................... nice tone MS-63 $ 3.50
  4. 1964 ............................. cameo MS-63 $ 5.00
  5. 1964 ....................... heavy cameo MS-63 $ 6.00
  6. 1964 ................................... MS-64 $ 6.50
  7. 1964 ........................ toned ICCS MS-64 $ 6.50
  8. 1964 .............................. ICCS MS-65 $20.00

Mature Head Series

(image of 1964 to 1989 type only)

1965 10 cent

  1. 1965 ................................... MS-63 $ 3.00
  2. 1965 ................................... MS-64 $ 6.50
  3. 1965 .................. ICCS heavy cameo MS-64 $12.00
  4. 1965 ................................... MS-65 $16.00
  5. 1965 ........................ light tone MS-65 $16.00
  6. 1965 ........................ cameo PROOF-LIKE $ 3.00

1966 10 cent

  1. 1966 ........................ trace tone MS-62 $ 3.00
  2. 1966 ................................... MS-63 $ 3.50
  3. 1966 ........................ trace tone MS-63 $ 3.50
  4. 1965 ............................. toned MS-63 $ 3.50
  5. 1966 ....................... slight tone MS-64 $ 8.00
  6. 1966 .............................. ICCS MS-65 $20.00
  7. 1966 .................. heavy cameo PROOF-LIKE $ 5.00
  8. 1966 .............................. ICCS PL-66 $12.00

1967 10 cent

In celebration of Canada's 100th anniversary of confederation, 1967 coins circulating coins depict animals common to Canada, with a mackerel on the dimes. For the first half of the year 1967 10 cent coins were struck to the 800 fine silver after which they were struck from 500 fine silver. There is no simple way to determine which purity a particular example was struck at as they look, feel and weigh exactly the same, although all examples in specimen and proof-like sets were struck at the 800 fine standard. 1967 coins were struck as Mint State, Proof-like and also in Specimen which were in the black boxed sets. Many of the specimen examples were toned by a reaction with the box's lid, and some of the toning can be a very attractive dark blue, although many examples have very unattractive toning.

  1. 1967, Mackerel ......................... MS-62 $ 2.50
  2. 1967, Mackerel ......................... MS-63 $ 3.00
  3. 1967, Mackerel ......................... MS-64 $ 6.50
  4. 1967, Mackerel .................... ICCS MS-65 $20.00
  5. 1967, Mackerel ........... blue toned SPECIMEN $ 3.50

Please note that up to 2011 when I describe a coin to be Proof-like (PL) I mean a coin from a mint set, intestinally struck to a higher quality than normal, but worth less than a MS (Mint State) coin from a bank roll in the same grade. They are fairly easily differentiated by their strike and luster. ICCS and some references call such coins NON-CIRCULATING NUMISMATIC MINT STATE which I feel will cause confusion in beginning collectors. Starting in 2012 the mint stopped making intentionally nicer coins for the standard sets and the coins are all simply MS (mint state) except for specimen and proof examples.

1968 SILVER 10 cent

1968 saw a return to the Bluenose design. For the first part of the year the coins were struck from 50% silver and 50% copper and are non-magnetic. No Proof-like silver examples were made. Later in the year they were pure nickel and will attract to a magnet.

  1. 1968 silver ............................ MS-62 $ 2.00
  2. 1968 silver ............................ MS-63 $ 2.50
  3. 1968 silver .................. nice tone MS-63 $ 3.50
  4. 1968 silver ............................ MS-64 $ 6.50
  5. 1968 silver ....................... ICCS MS-64 $ 6.50
  6. 1968 silver ....................... ICCS MS-65 $20.00

NICKEL 10 CENT

During early 1968 the 10 cent coins were made of 50% silver, but later that year (and all following years until 1999 for circulation strikes and 1996 for proofs) they changed the alloy to pure nickel with no change in size or weight. They can easily be distinguished with a magnet as nickel ones attract and silver ones will not.

For most dates of nickel 10 cent coins I only list those from proof-like, specimen or proof sets, as circulation strikes from rolls are generally not of enough value to justify listing. There are a few exceptions which I will discuss among the listings.

There are no rare dates in this series, so if you don't see a particular date listed here, please do not assume it is rare, as it is more likely too common (thus low value) for us to list in a circulation strike, and for some reason I simply do not have one from a mint set to list at this time. I add this because I get a lot of e-mails from people asking why the date they have is not listed, and they assumed that means it is rare.

From 1968 to 1970, the only mint sets made for general distribution were Proof-like sets so generally we only offer these dates in Proof-like quality, unless exception MS coins are available.

1968 NICKEL 10 cent

Due to a large need for nickel 10 cents where changing over from silver to nickel in 1968, the Royal Canadian Mint lacked the capacity mint enough coins so contracted the Philadelphia mint to make the needed extra coins. Those struck at the RC mint in Ottawa have a distinct V between the edge reeds, while those from Philadelphia have more flat bottomed U. In practice these can be very difficult to tell a part, although all examples in Proof-like sets were mint at RC mint in Ottawa.

  1. 1968 nickel........................ PROOF-LIKE $ 0.50


1969 SMALL DATE

1969 LARGE DATE

1969 10 cent

Over 55 million 10 cents were struck in 1969 nearly all of which have a rather small date where the top of the 6 and bottom of the 9 both end pointing straight across. There is a large date variety where the date and most of the reverse design are larger, and the top of the 6 and bottom of the 9 curls further around to point more downward. The images above were both to the same resolution so the relative sizes are shown accurately, and the difference in the curl is clear (even if the images are a little fuzzy). Less than 20 of the large date variety are currently known to exist.

  1. 1969 ................................... MS-62 $ 0.50
  2. 1969 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.50
  3. 1969 .. small thread strike through PROOF-LIKE $ 2.00

1970 10 cent

  1. 1970 .............................. ICCS MS-65 SOLD

Beginning in 1971, the mint begins striking three different striking qualities of coins, with a fourth added in 1981 :
Mint state (abbreviated MS) which are coins struck for issue through the banks and have average lustre and surface qualities. In most cases MS coins have little value unless in the highest range of the MS coins, which are seldom available.
Proof-like (abbreviated PL) are standard mint set coins, usually from the pliofilm packaged sets, red double penny sets, and later the blue book sets, and even later from a variety of other types of sets. PL coins have a much higher lustre than MS coins, mostly because they fresh new dies, and they also have very minimal marks (the average PL is a PL-64) as they did not go through as many mint handling processes as MS coins do, but they are not perfect coins and one should not expect them to be absolutely mark free.
Specimen (abbreviated SP or SPEC) were in the black leather double dollar sets from 1971 to 1980, and for later dates in various different sets. Like PL coins they are struck from dies in their freshest new die state but differ in being double struck to give them a higher lustre and sharper images. They do not go through any mint handling processes before going into the sets so are usually nearly mark free. The rims and edges tend to be a little sharper than on PL or MS coins, although this is not obvious on a casual inspection. When I list a coin as specimen, I personally took it from a specimen set.
Proof (abbreviated PR) coins are very nice coins double struck to given them perfect lustre with specially prepared dies that create mirror fields and frosted images (and ultra cameo effect). They were specially handled to go into the sets as close to perfect condition as possible. Starting in 1996 proof 10 cent coins were struck in silver, and will sometimes have some light toning, especially around the edges.

1971 10 cent

  1. 1971 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75

1972 10 cent

  1. 1972 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  2. 1972 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 1.25

1973 10 cent

  1. 1973 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  2. 1973 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 1.25

1974 10 cent

  1. 1974 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  2. 1974 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 1.00

1975 10 cent

  1. 1975 ................................... MS-64 $ 8.00
  2. 1975 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  3. 1975 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 1.25

1976 10 cent

  1. 1976 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  2. 1976 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 1.25

1977 10 cent

  1. 1977 .............................. ICCS MS-65 $20.00
  2. 1977 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  3. 1977 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 1.25

1978 10 cent

  1. 1978 ................................... MS-64 $ 8.00
  2. 1978 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75

1979 10 cent

  1. 1979 ................................... MS-64 $ 8.00
  2. 1979 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  3. 1979 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 1.25

1980 10 cent

1980 10 cents come with narrow dates where the numerals narrower at the top and bottom, and wide dates where the numerals are about the same width all the way around. Narrow dates occur in circulation (MS), PL and Specimen quality, and are common in all three. The wide dates is see only in circulation (MS) strikes, are scarcer than narrow dates, and the listing for them with a price in Proof-like quality in the Canadian Coin News Trend sheet is in error.

  1. 1980 wide date ......................... MS-62 SOLD
  2. 1980 narrow date .................... SPECIMEN SOLD

1981 saw the introduction of proof sets to replace the double dollar specimen sets. The proof coins have frosted images against mirror fields and while specimen strikes continued to be struck, they were in other types of sets. Whether proof or specimen coins are easier to get as single coins, depends mostly in the value of the intact sets they come from. Generally after 2012 most proof sets are worth more intact than broken up so those coins are harder to get in proof.

1981 10 cent

  1. 1981 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 1.00
  2. 1981 ................................... PROOF $ 2.00

1982 10 cent

  1. 1982 ................................... MS-62 $ 0.75
  2. 1982 ................................... MS-63 $ 1.00
  3. 1982 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  4. 1982 ................................... PROOF $ 2.00

1983 10 cent

  1. 1983 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 1.25
  2. 1983 ................................... PROOF $ 2.00

1984 10 cent

  1. 1984 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 1.25
  2. 1984 ................................... PROOF $ 2.00

1985 10 cent

  1. 1985 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 1.25
  2. 1985 ................................... PROOF $ 2.00

1986 10 cent

  1. 1986 .............................. ICCS MS-65 $36.00
  2. 1986 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 1.25
  3. 1986 ................................... PROOF $ 2.00

1987 10 cent

  1. 1987 ................................... MS-63 $ 1.00
  2. 1987 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  3. 1987 ................................... PROOF $ 2.00

1988 10 cent

  1. 1988 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  2. 1988 ................................... PROOF $ 2.00

1989 10 cent

  1. 1989 ................................... MS-62 $ 1.00
  2. 1989 ................................... MS-63 $ 1.25
  3. 1989 ................................... MS-64 $ 8.00
  4. 1989 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 1.50
  5. 1989 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 2.00
  6. 1989 ................................... PROOF $ 2.00

ELIZABETH II, Crowned Head

1990 10 cent

  1. 1990 ................................... MS-62 $ 0.50
  2. 1990 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 1.50
  3. 1990 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 2.00
  4. 1990 ................................... PROOF $ 2.00

1991 10 cent

  1. 1991 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 2.50
  2. 1991 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 3.00
  3. 1991 ................................... PROOF $ 4.00

1992 10 cent

1992 was Canada's 125th anniversary of confederation, and 10 cents of this year have the date shown as the double date 1867-1992 to either side of the Blue Nose.

  1. 1992 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  2. 1992 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 1.25
  3. 1992 ................................... PROOF $ 3.00

1993 10 cent

  1. 1993 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  2. 1993 ................................... PROOF $ 2.00

1994 10 cent

  1. 1994 ................................... MS-62 $ 0.50
  2. 1994 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 1.00
  3. 1994 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 1.50
  4. 1994 ................................... PROOF $ 2.00

1995 10 cent

  1. 1995 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 1.25
  2. 1995 ................................... PROOF $ 2.00

From 1996 to 2011 all of the Proof strike ten cent coins are sterling (92.5%) silver at 2.4 grams. Proof-like, specimen and circulation strike coins continue to be either pure nickel at 2.07 grams, or in later dates nickel plated steel. The holders for proof sets are not sealed air tight, so air can get in and often causes the silver coins to develop a light golden brown toning, especially around the edges. This effect can be fairly attractive. Tone free (pure white) examples can be difficult to find for some dates. One should expect at least a little toning around the edges on these coins, which can be fairly attractive, but if you prefer white tone free examples please specify such on your order and I can usually accommodate such requests. Examples with heavier toning will be noted in the descriptions.

1996 10 cent

In 1996 Proof-like and specimen strikes have a reverse cameo effect where the backgrounds are matte while the designs are more mirror finish, unlike previous sets which were mirror finish on all surfaces. The proof-likes and specimens can be very difficult to tell a part but specimens have very slightly crisper designs and slightly better formed rims due to having been double struck, but these difference is minor.

  1. 1996 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 3.00
  2. 1996 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 3.50
  3. 1996 ..... light golden edge tone silver PROOF $ 5.00

1997 10 cent

In 1997 the normal Bluenose 10 cents were struck for circulation. While proof-like sets were struck earlier in the year at Ottawa and later at Winnipeg, the coins from the two mints are identical s one removed form the sets cannot be differentiated. The only way to be certain of the mint is to buy intact mint sets.

1997 saw proof sterling silver 10 cent's commemorating the 500th anniversary of John (Giovanni) Cabot's discovery of North America in 1497. Columbus only discovered the Caribbean Islands and central America, but not North America in 1492), although the Vikings were here long before either of them.

  1. 1997 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  2. 1997 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 1.25
  3. 1997 ...................... white silver PROOF $ 5.00
  4. 1997 ..... light golden edge tone silver PROOF $ 5.00
  5. 1997 CABOTO ..................... silver PROOF SOLD

1998 10 cent

In 1998 proof-like sets were minted at Winnipeg for the first part of the year, and those coins have a W mint mark to the lower right of the Queen's head. No circulation strikes were struck with this mark. Sets were minted at Ottawa later in the year, and those coins do not have the W or any other mint mark. In my experience the Ottawa examples in Proof-like are more difficult to find than the Winnipeg examples. All circulation (MS), specimen and proof coins were without at Ottawa mint mark. The finish on 1998 proof-like coins returns to high luster finish, while specimen coins retain the slightly matte finish fields with high lustre designs that first appeared in 1996.

  1. 1998 (0) .......................... PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  2. 1998 (0) ............................ SPECIMEN $ 1.25
  3. 1998 ...................... white silver PROOF $ 5.00
  4. 1998 ..... light golden edge tone silver PROOF $ 5.00
  5. 1998 W ............................ PROOF-LIKE $ 2.50

Also for 1998, to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Mint, a series of coins were struck in a style similar to the original 1908 coinage, but with a bust of Elizabeth II in place of Edward's on the obverse. These were struck from silver and only issued in specimen sets, available with either a proof or artificially toned matte surface.

1908-1998 COMMEMORATIVE 10 cent

  1. 1908-1998 ........................ MATTE-PROOF SOLD
  2. 1908-1998 ....................... MIRROR-PROOF SOLD

1999 10 cent

All 1999 10 cents were struck at Ottawa without a mint mark, with specimen and proof-like examples easy to differentiate by the different finishes that are the same as those in 1998. I am not sure why but most of the times that I find in 1999 Proof sets do not have the peripheral toning common to other dates.

  1. 1999 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  2. 1999 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 1.25
  3. 1999 ...................... white silver PROOF $ 5.00

1999 P TEST 10 cent

In 1999, as a cost saving measure, the Canadian Mint made plans to strike 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 cent coins on nickel plated steel blanks which were first nickel plated, then copper plated and then for all denominations other than the 1 cent, nickel plated again. A P was placed below the Queen's portrait to indicate a plated steel blank. First struck only as test tokens for vending machine companies for calibrate purposes, those companies were supposed to return them to the mint. Some ended up on the market at very high prices so the mint got in on the action selling 20,000 sets to collectors at much lower prices.

Packaged like Proof-like sets their exact status is unclear and I prefer to call them Proof-likes, but others including ICCS call them Mint State. A mintage of only 20,000 means they are nearly as scarce as 1948 dollars. The vinyl packaging leaves a light film on them that can be removed with rubbing alcohol.

  1. 1999 P ............................ PROOF-LIKE SOLD

2000 10 cent

In 2000 the circulation (MS), specimen and proof sets were all struck at Ottawa without mint mark while proof-like sets were made both at Ottawa without mint mark and Winnipeg with s 'W' mint mark. They were all supposed to be struck in pure nickel, but a very small number experimental plated steel cored 10 cents with the P were made but never intended to be issued. Somewhere between 300 and 500 later turned up with most still in mint condition.

A special issued of 2000 10 cents commemorate the 100th anniversary of the opening of the Caisse Populaire de Levis in Quebec, the first Credit Union in North America. These were all issued as sterling silver proofs.

  1. 2000 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  2. 2000 ..... light golden edge tone silver PROOF $ 5.00
  3. 2000 ...................... white silver PROOF $ 5.00
  4. 2000 W ............................ PROOF-LIKE $ 1.50
  5. 2000 P ................................. MS-66 SOLD
  6. 2000 CAISSES POPULAIRES ......... silver PROOF SOLD

Starting in 2001 all 10 cent coins other than solid silver proof examples are minted in steel core plated blanks. From 2001 to part way through 2006 they have the P for plated below the Queen's portrait but later in 2006 and all dates after that the P was replaced by the mint logo. The Canadian Coin News trend sheet lists inexpensive prices for 2001 non-P circulation strikes while the Charlton Standard Catalogue does not list them at all. I believe the CCN listing is in error.

2001 10 cent

Two designs were issued for circulation in 2001, the standard bluenose and a one commemorating Canadian Volunteer workers. The bluenose design occurs in circulation MS, proof-like, specimen and silver proof. The volunteer design occurs in circulation MS, silver proof and while the standard references do not list it in proof-like (Non-Circulating MS) some that come in special souvenir cards have to be either proof-like or MS-65 to MS-66. As in that packaging there were never intended for circulation and they have the characteristics of a Proof-like coin, so I listed them as Proof-likes as they should not be confused with genuine MS-65 or MS-66 examples from mint rolls at much higher prices. Volunteer dimes are supposed to be on the same blanks as the bluenose 10 cents, but something is different as many vending machines reject them. I have not yet determined what is different.

  1. 2001 ............................ silver PROOF $ 5.00
  2. 2001 P ............................ ICCS MS-65 $24.00
  3. 2001 P ............................ PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  4. 2001 P .............................. SPECIMEN $ 1.25
  5. 2001 P Volunteer commemorative .... ICCS MS-66 $36.00

2002 10 cent

For the 50th anniversary of the Queen's accession 10 cents (and most other Canadian coins) of 2002 are double dated with 1952 above 2002 below the Queen's portrait a little to the left. No date appears on the reverse and I get phone calls from people claiming to have a dime without not date, as they have never noticed the date on the other side.

  1. 2002 ...................... white silver PROOF $ 6.50
  2. 2002 P ............................ PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  3. 2002 P .............................. SPECIMEN $ 1.25
  4. 2002 P ............................ ICCS SP-67 $28.00

2003 was an interesting year for Canadian coins, with a number of varieties including the introduction of a new effigy of the Queen without a crown.

2003 10 CENT Old Effigy

Coins struck earlier in 2003 have the crowned effigy of the Queen first introduced in 1990 and are found both with a P below the Queen's bust on plated steel or without the P on solid silver blanks from proof sets. Most proof-like and all specimen and normal proof sets in 2003 are of this bust type.

  1. 2003 old effigy ........... white silver PROOF $ 5.00
  2. 2003 P old effigy ................. PROOF-LIKE $ 1.50
  3. 2003 P old effigy ................... SPECIMEN $ 2.00

2003 10 CENT New Effigy

Later in 2003 the Queen's bust was redesigned without a crown. Timed to celebrate the 50th anniversary of her coronation, the new effigy Coronation Portrait was introduced showing her without a crown but as it became the standard portrait for later years it is commonly known as the New Effigy. All New Effigy examples are on plated steel with the P. Those with just the P are only found from bank rolls for circulation with some Proof-like sets struck at Winnipeg found with WP to designate the Winnipeg mint, the only time the W and P appear on coins at the same time.

  1. 2003 P new effigy ................. ICCS MS-66 SOLD
  2. 2003 WP new effigy ................ PROOF-LIKE SOLD

2004 and all later dates use the new effigy portrait and are struck on plated steel blanks other than the solid silver proof examples. As in previous few years, Proof-like coins have an over all even lustre while specimen examples have high lustre designs with matte back grounds. A special commemorate 10 cent, only sold as a collectable by the mint, commemorated 100th anniversary of open championship golf in Canada, and is somewhat difficult to find.

Rare canadian coins 1867-1967

Rare Canadian Coins

2004 10 cent

  1. 2004 ...................... white silver PROOF $ 5.50
  2. 2004 .......... light golden tone silver PROOF $ 5.50
  3. 2004 P ............................ PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  4. 2004 P .............................. SPECIMEN $ 1.25
  5. 2004 P GOLF ....................... PROOF-LIKE SOLD

2005 10 cent

  1. 2005 ...................... white silver PROOF $ 6.50
  2. 2005 P ................................. MS-63 $ 0.75
  3. 2005 P ................................. MS-64 $ 6.50
  4. 2005 P ............................ PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  5. 2005 P .............................. SPECIMEN $ 1.25

2006 10 cent

All 2006 10 cents, other than silver proofs are on plated blanks. Those struck earlier in the year have the P for plated but later in the year the P was replace by the stylized maple leaf mint logo. The mint logo does not indicated plated as in later years it also occurs on silver proofs. 2006 MS and PL 10 cents are found with either the P or logo. Specimen and proof strikes were struck only early in the year so all specimen examples have the P and silver proof examples are without either the logo or P.

  1. 2006 ...................... trace toning PROOF $ 6.50
  2. 2006 P ............................ PROOF-LIKE $ 1.50
  3. 2006 P .............................. SPECIMEN $ 2.00
  4. 2006 LOGO ......................... PROOF-LIKE $ 1.50

Starting in 2007, all Canada 10 cent coins in all striking qualities including the solid silver proof examples, have the stylized maple leaf mint logo below the Queen's bust, so there is no need to mention the logo in descriptions.

2007 10 cent

All circulation (MS) strikes and silver proof 2007 dimes have a straight 7. The Proof-like sets in the black envelopes can have either straight or curved 7's, while the sets with the Olympic quarters have the curved 7. All examples in specimen sets are curved 7. This makes the curved 7's much scarcer and while they are priced the same in the standard referenced, that makes no sense to me and I do price the curved 7's slightly higher.

  1. 2007 straight 7 ................... ICCS MS-67 $68.50
  2. 2007 straight 7 ................... PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  3. 2007 straight 7 ........... white silver PROOF $ 7.50
  4. 2007 curved 7 ....................... SPECIMEN SOLD

2008 10 cent

  1. 2008 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  2. 2008 ...................... white silver PROOF $ 7.50

2009 10 cent

  1. 2009 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  2. 2009 ...................... white silver PROOF $ 7.50

2010 10 CENT

  1. 2010 .............................. PROOF-LIKE $ 0.75
  2. 2010 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 1.25
  3. 2010 ...................... white silver PROOF $10.00

In 2011 the mint stopped striking superior quality coins for Proof-like (standard) mint sets, rather using normal MS coins that had not gone through all of the mint handling processes rolled coins go through in which the average quality also improved so that most coins from Mint rolls are MS-63 or better. There is no way to differentiate between MS coins from bank rolls and coins from standard mint sets once they have been removed from the roll or set so there is no longer a reason to MS-64 or higher coins from bank rolls higher than those from mint sets.

Rare Canadian Coins

When available I will price the standard 10 cent types 2011 or newer in MS-63 @ $0.50, MS-64 @ $1.00, MS-65 @ $ 1.50. Specimen examples are still produced with the distinctive mirror designs against frosted backgrounds and are both scarcer and worth more.

At this point examples 2011 and newer are difficult to get in all striking qualities. The mint rolls seldom come in, and most of the mint sets are worth far more intact than cut up, so I seldom do so.

2011 10 CENT

To commemorate the 1911 Godless coins a set of sterling silver Proof commemorative's was struck in 2011 which show the date as 1911-2011, and depict the bust and inscriptions of George V as they were in the 1911 coins.

  1. 2011 ................................... MS-63 $ 0.50
  2. 2011 ................................... MS-64 $ 0.75
  3. 2011 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 2.00
  4. 2011 ...................... white silver PROOF SOLD
  5. 1911-2011 commemorative ... white silver PROOF SOLD

Starting in 2012 the mint began striking proof sets where all of the coins other than the loon dollars are silver, and sets where only the silver dollar is silver and all of the other coins are base metal. Thus 2012 and newer 10 cents can be either but look identical so the only way to tell them a part is with a magnet.

2012 10 CENT

  1. 2012 ................................... MS-64 $ 1.00
  2. 2012 ................................... MS-65 $ 1.50
  3. 2012 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 2.00
  4. 2012 ...................... white silver PROOF $16.00

2013 10 CENT

  1. 2013 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 2.00

2013 10 CENT

  1. 2014 ................................ SPECIMEN $ 2.00

2015 10 CENT

  1. 2015 ................................... MS-65 $ 1.00

2016 10 CENT

  1. 2016 ................................... MS-63 $ 0.50
  2. 2016 ................................... MS-64 $ 0.75

2017 10 CENT

Canada's 150'th anniversary as a country was celebrated in 2017, and both regular coins and special anniversary coins were issued that year. On the 10 cent the regular bluenose type is the most common, issued in nearly 200 million in both bank rolls and some mint sets. The commemorative issue was called the Wings of Peace although it actually depicts a stylized maple leaf, with about 20 million issued in both bank rolls and mint sets.

  1. 2017 bluenose .......................... MS-64 SOLD
  2. 2017 Wings of Peace .................... MS-64 SOLD

2018 10 CENT

  1. 2018 ................................... MS-65 $ 1.00

Please note that up to 2010 I describe coins as Proof-like (PL) if they come from a mint set. PL coins are easily differentiated by their superior strike and luster, with only very minor bag marks and while nicer than MS coins from bank rolls they are easier to find in high grades and usually worth less. ICCS and some references refer to these as NON-CIRCULATING NUMISMATIC MINT STATE which I find confusing which is why I to call them Proof-like. In 2011 the mint started putting standard Mint State coins in the normal mint sets, although these bypassed some of the mint handling procedures so these coins will usually be MS-64 and MS-65. This makes those grades more common than for earlier dates. Specimen and proof sets still use specially struck coins with distinctive finishes.

Prices are in Canadian Dollars

All orders shipped to addresses in Canada must add GST (or HST).

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Victoria, 1858-1901
Edward VII, 1902-1910
George V, 1911-1936
George VI, 1937-1952
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Elizabeth, 1990-2012
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Rare Canadian Coins Nickels

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$1, Loon, 1987-date (Elizabeth II)


Canadian Coin Values Coin Price Guide

Coins are 11-sided and weigh 7.00 grams with a diameter of 26.72 mm in 1987 and 26.5 mm from 1988-date and have a composition of nickel electroplated with bronze (91.5% nickel, 8.5% bronze). Thickness is 1.95 mm in 1987, 1.75 mm from 1988-date.
This coin design was launched in 1987 amid public criticism over the loss of the $1.00 bill. The design shows a loon swimming across a lake. The coin is multi-sided, with a nickel interior and bronze/aureate coating. The reverse shows Queen Elizabeth. Test tokens for this issue are also known.
Initially, resistance to the coin was high, mostly from older members of the population. The widely held belief that the coin was not needed and was stupid, coupled with the political climate at the time and the series of administrative gaffs leading up to its release all contributed to the coin being named the Loonie, a nickname still in use today. The first issue of the Loon is actually a scarce coin in uncirculated condition, contrary to the customary trend of the second year of issue being more valuable. The public disdain for the coin evidently resulted in few being saved. The Loon dollar coin has also been issued in several commemorative formats and now circulates alongside the new $2.00 coin.
Interestingly, the $2.00 coin did not spark the wide debate that the Loon dollar did, despite the subsequent loss of the $2.00 bill. $5.00 is now the smallest paper bill in general circulation in Canada, although all Government issues of paper money continue to be exchangeable for their full value. Please see the Royal Canadian Mint section for information about special loon designs that did not circulate.
For coins with significant silver content the prices will be adjusted to current market equivalent when an order is filled.
Please note that this catalogue is used as both an ordering tool and the only online reference list of its kind. We do not always have every item available in every grade, nor do we have every older coin or set. However, we tend to have many items available in many grades. Rare or hard to obtain items may not be available. Anything not currently available can be located for you if you request by sending an e-mail, fax, or by calling.

YearMintageMS60MS63MS64MS65PL
1987 205,405,000 2.50 3.50 8.00 30.00
1988 ( Limited availability, One per customer) 138,893,593 3.00 [4.50] [10.00] [45.00]
1989 184,773,902 4.00 5.00 12.00 [60]
1990 68,402,000 3.00 4.00 10.00 60.00
1991 23,156,000 3.00 4.00 10.00 50.00
1867-1992 Parliament 23,010,915 2.50 3.00 10.00 35.00 7.00
1992 4,242,085 3.00 4.00 10.00 [40]
1993 33,662,000 3.00 5.00 10.00 25.00 5.00
1994 Cenotaph 15,000,000 2.50 3.50 10.00 60.00
1994 40,406,000 2.50 3.50 10.00 30.00
1995 Peacekeeper 41,813,000 2.50 3.50 10.00 30.00
1995 Incl. Above 2.50 3.50 10.00 [25]
1996 17,101,000 3.50 4.00 10.00 [25]
1997 12.00
1997 Flying Loon 30.00
1998 12.00
1998 W 17.95
1999 9.00
2000 12.00
2000 W 9.00
2001 PL, SP, or Proof Only 14.00
1952-2002 Golden Jubilee 2,301,000 3.00 4.00 [7] [20]
2002 Family of Loons [PL price was $35] Unavailable
2003 Crowned 5,101,750 WANTED: WE BUY COINS [20]
2003 Uncrowned -- Sold Out Incl. Above [3] [4] [7] [20.00]
2003 W Uncrowned Incl. Above 12.00
2004 3,408,000 3.00 4.00 7.00 20.00
2004 Lucky Loonie 6,526,000 3.00 4.00 7.00 15.00 Unavailable
2004 Silver Lucky Loonie [See under Royal Canadian Mint products] 20,000
2004 Elusive Loon [See Under Royal Canadian Mint - Loons section]
2005 32,336,000 3.00 4.00 7.00 [15]
2005 Puffin [See under Royal Canadian Mint products - Loons section]
2005 Terry Fox 12,909,000 2.50 3.00 7.00 15.00
2006 Lucky Loonie 8,350,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00
2006 Silver Lucky Loonie [See under Royal Canadian Mint products - Loons] 20,000
2006 Logo 10,495,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00
2007 Logo 38,045,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 [15]
2008 Logo 18,710,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00
2008 Lucky Loonie 10,851,000 3.00 5.00 10.00 25.00
2009 with RCM Logo 10,250,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00 13.00
2009 Montreal Canadiens 10,250,000 3.00 5.00 10.00 25.00 RCM Section
2010 Lucky Loonie 10,250,000 3.00 5.00 8.00 15.00
2010 Logo 4,110,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00
2010 Saskatchewan Roughriders 3,100,000 4.00 6.00 10.00 25.00
2010 Navy 7,000,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00
2011 Logo 20,410,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00
2011 Parks Canada 5,000,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00
2012 Logo (Old Style) 2,414,000 6.00 8.00 [15] [25]
2012 Logo (New Style) 107,105,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00
2012 Lucky Loonie 5,000,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00
2012 Grey Cup 5,000,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00
2013 Logo 120,330,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00
2014 Logo 24,978,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00
2014 Lucky Loonie 5,000,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00
2015 Logo 22,140,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00 P.O.R.
2016 Loon 28,764,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00
2016 Womens' Right to Vote 5,000,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00
2016 100th Anniversary of Women's Right to Vote Pack of 5 Coins 6.50
2016 Lucky Loonie 5,000,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00
2017 (1867-2017) 10,000,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00
2017 Toronto Maple Leafs Centennial 5,150,000 2.00 3.00 8.00 15.00

Rare Canadian Coins Worth Money

All prices shown in Canadian Dollars