1963 Canadian 5-Cent Nickel Coin
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic Currency) · Royal Canadian Mint (RCM), Ottawa branch; high-reputation government institution known for quality coinage and precious metal refining.
Pattern: Elizabeth II Beaver Reverse, George Kruger-Gray design; introduced in 1937, still the standard circulating reverse.
Type
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic Currency)
Maker
Royal Canadian Mint (RCM), Ottawa branch; high-reputation government institution known for quality coinage and precious metal refining.
Material
Pure Nickel (99.9%); despite the silver color, this specific year contains NO silver content. Canadian nickels were pure nickel from 1922-1942 and 1946-1981.
Dimensions
Diameter: 21.21 mm; Weight: 4.54 grams; Thickness: 1.7 mm.
Description
A classic specimen of mid-century Canadian currency featuring the naturalist beaver design by G.E. Kruger-Gray. While it displays the bright, lustrous sheen common to nickel-based alloys, it is distinct from earlier silver coinage. This piece represents the economic boom of 1960s Canada and the transition toward industrial metals for circulating small change.
Key Features
Pure nickel composition (strongly magnetic); Laureate portrait era; iconic beaver design; 'Far 3' or 'Near 3' date variety (this appears to be the standard Near 3).
Material & Composition
Pure Nickel (99.9%); despite the silver color, this specific year contains NO silver content. Canadian nickels were pure nickel from 1922-1942 and 1946-1981.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish with relief engraving. Features the iconic beaver on a log over a river with two maple leaves. Toothed border (denticles).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '5 CENTS', 'CANADA', and '1963' on the reverse. The obverse (not shown but implied) features Mary Gillick's Laureate Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.
Construction Details
Machine-made; die-struck on a planchet at high pressure. Plain/smooth edge without reeding.
Functional Features
Monetary denomination indicator '5 Cents' for circulation; magnetic due to high nickel purity.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; standard round minted coin with smooth rim for tactile handling.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-struck with sharp detail in the beaver's fur; high-quality industrial striking characteristic of the Ottawa Mint during the 1960s.
Authentication Indicators
Die-struck characteristics consistent with RCM production; correct font and date placement; magnetic properties confirm nickel composition over silver counterfeits.
Origin & Manufacturing
Ottawa, Canada; Royal Canadian Mint. Struck during the height of the mid-century industrial period.
Era & Period
Modern Era; Elizabeth II Laureate Head (1953-1964) period of Canadian coinage.
Age Estimate
Dated 1963; approximately 61 years old.
Cultural Significance
A fundamental unit of Canadian trade for decades; the beaver is a national symbol of industry and perseverance.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition; Moderate surface scratches (bag marks) and light tarnish/oxidation visible on the beaver's back. Rim is intact without significant dings. Grade: Very Fine (VF).
Value Estimate
Standard circulated value: $0.10 - $0.25 USD. Uncirculated (MS) specimens can fetch $1.00 - $5.00. Intrinsic metal value is roughly face value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as it ruins numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free flip or archival 2x2 holder to prevent environmental spots.
Similar Pieces
1921 Canada 5-Cent (92.5% silver) - significantly smaller and more valuable; 1943 Tombac (copper-zinc) - yellow-gold color; 1982-present nickel (nickel-plated steel) - multi-ply plating.
Interesting Facts
The 1963 nickel had a high mintage of over 43 million pieces. The beaver design was originally chosen in 1937 to replace the two maple leaves design, symbolizing the early Canadian fur trade.