Royal Canadian Mint 1999 Canadian Five Cents Nickel Coin
Coin/Bullion · Royal Canadian Mint
Pattern: Standard Canadian Five Cents Circulation Coin featuring the Beaver design by G. E. Kruger-Gray
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Royal Canadian Mint
Material
Nickel (75% copper, 25% nickel or 100% nickel depending on exact year specifications, typically nickel-plated steel or pure nickel for this era)
Dimensions
Standard Canadian 5-cent coin diameter of 21.2 mm, thickness of 1.76 mm, and weight of approximately 3.95 grams
Description
A standard circulating Canadian five-cent coin, commonly known as a nickel, dated 1999. Held in the palm of a hand, the reverse clearly displays the iconic Canadian beaver resting on a log, flanked by small maple leaves, with the denomination '5 CENTS', country name 'CANADA', and year '1999' crisply struck in relief.
Key Features
Classic Canadian beaver motif, clear 1999 date, standard circulating nickel composition and dimensions
Material & Composition
Nickel (75% copper, 25% nickel or 100% nickel depending on exact year specifications, typically nickel-plated steel or pure nickel for this era)
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish with reeded edge, featuring a raised depiction of a beaver on a log on the reverse and the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse
Hallmarks & Stamps
Inscribed with '5 CENTS', 'CANADA', and the year '1999', along with small maple leaf mint marks depending on specific strike variations
Construction Details
Machine-struck via high-pressure minting presses using hardened steel dies
Functional Features
Standard circulating monetary denomination designed for currency exchange and daily transactions
Handle & Grip Details
Plain circular disc with a reeded (ridged) outer edge
Craftsmanship Details
High-precision modern industrial coin striking with sharp details on the beaver's fur and the lettering
Authentication Indicators
Correct diameter, standard reeded edge, proper relief depth, and official Royal Canadian Mint typography and iconography
Origin & Manufacturing
Minted in Ottawa or Winnipeg, Canada, by the Royal Canadian Mint
Era & Period
Late 20th Century Modern Period (1990-2000)
Age Estimate
Dated 1999, exactly late 20th century
Cultural Significance
Represents everyday Canadian currency, national identity, and the long-standing wildlife iconography utilized in modern coinage
Condition Notes
Circulated condition with minor surface wear, typical light scratches, and standard tarnish consistent with pocket and hand circulation. Graded as Very Fine to Extremely Fine.
Value Estimate
Face value (5 Canadian cents) or minor collector/numismatic value of $0.10 to $0.50 USD depending on exact condition and metal composition variants
Care & Maintenance
Store in a dry coin flip, holder, or album to prevent further environmental toning and surface wear
Similar Pieces
Other Canadian five-cent circulating coins from the 1990s and 2000s featuring the same G. E. Kruger-Gray beaver design
Interesting Facts
The beaver has been a symbol of Canada and featured on its five-cent coin since 1937, representing industriousness and the country's rich fur-trade history