2005 60th Anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE Day) Canadian Nickel
Coin/Bullion · Royal Canadian Mint (RCM), established in Ottawa in 1908. Known for high-quality strikes and commemorative numismatic engineering.
Pattern: Victory Nickel Commemorative Design (Re-issue of the 1943-1945 Thomas Shingles design)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Royal Canadian Mint (RCM), established in Ottawa in 1908. Known for high-quality strikes and commemorative numismatic engineering.
Material
Multi-ply plated steel (94.5% steel, 3.5% copper, 2% nickel plating). This 2005 version contains no sterling silver, though it resembles silver in color.
Dimensions
Diameter: 21.2 mm; Thickness: 1.76 mm; Weight: 3.95 grams.
Description
A circulation commemorative 5-cent coin featuring the iconic 'Victory' design originally created to promote the war effort in the 1940s. The 2005 issue celebrates the 60th anniversary of the end of WWII.
Key Features
Dual dates '1945-2005'; Roman numeral 'V' which serves both as a symbol for Victory and the denomination (5).
Material & Composition
Multi-ply plated steel (94.5% steel, 3.5% copper, 2% nickel plating). This 2005 version contains no sterling silver, though it resembles silver in color.
Finish & Decoration
Circulated nickel finish with relief engraving. Features a large central 'V' superimposed by a torch, flanked by maple leaves. Legend includes 'CANADA' and '5 CENTS'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraver initials 'T.S' (Thomas Shingles) right of the torch. Mint mark 'P' may be present below the Queen's portrait (obverse, not shown) indicating plated composition.
Construction Details
Modern high-speed die-striking using multi-ply plating technology over a steel core. Die-struck to produce sharp relief on the 'V' and torch.
Functional Features
Legal tender with a face value of 5 Canadian cents; serrated or plain edge (plain for this denomination).
Handle & Grip Details
None; standard coin edges.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck precision typical of modern government mints; features excellent detail in the torch flames despite the hard steel core.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic RCM typography, specific multi-core magnetic response (steel), and known 2005 dual-date configuration.
Origin & Manufacturing
Winnipeg or Ottawa, Canada; Royal Canadian Mint production facility.
Era & Period
Post-Modern (Contemporary); Anniversary commemoration of the World War II era (1945).
Age Estimate
Produced in 2005 (19 years old as of 2024).
Cultural Significance
Represents Canada's contribution to World War II and the domestic pride associated with the Allied victory in Europe (VE Day).
Condition Notes
Circulated condition with visible contact marks, minor surface scratches, and slight dulling of the original mint luster. Grade: Very Fine (VF).
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.05 CAD) to approximately $0.50-$1.00 USD in high-grade circulated condition. Uncirculated examples carry a slight premium.
Care & Maintenance
Handle by the edges to avoid finger oils. Store in PVC-free flips or capsules. Do not clean with silver polish as it will damage numismatic value.
Similar Pieces
1943-1945 Tombac or Chrome-plated Steel nickels (original issues); 1943-2005 Sterling Silver Proof versions (contained in special collector sets).
Interesting Facts
The original 1943-45 nickels featured a Morse code message around the rim stating 'We Win When We Work Willingly'. This 2005 version is a tribute to that design.