Royal Canadian Mint 1999 Millennium Quarter 'This is Canada' (December)
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic) · Royal Canadian Mint (RCM), founded in 1908 in Ottawa, known for high-quality strikes and innovative coin production.
Pattern: Millennium Quarters Collection - 1999 Series (December Issue: 'This Is Canada')
Type
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic)
Maker
Royal Canadian Mint (RCM), founded in 1908 in Ottawa, known for high-quality strikes and innovative coin production.
Material
Nickel (Circulation strike). Note: While a silver proof version exists (.925 sterling), this specific specimen visual suggests the cupro-nickel circulation finish used for general commerce.
Dimensions
Diameter: 23.88 mm. Weight: 4.4 grams (if nickel) or 5.9 grams (if silver proof). Thickness: 1.58 mm.
Description
This coin represents the final month (December) of the 12-piece Millennium quarter series of 1999. The design, titled 'This is Canada,' was selected through a nationwide contest and features an abstract, futuristic interpretation of Canadian geography and architecture, transitioning from a sunny horizon into the new millennium.
Key Features
Stylized geometric peaks, sunburst motif on the right, dual-language month inscription, and 'JLPP' artist initials.
Material & Composition
Nickel (Circulation strike). Note: While a silver proof version exists (.925 sterling), this specific specimen visual suggests the cupro-nickel circulation finish used for general commerce.
Finish & Decoration
Die-struck with a satin-matte field and relief design. It features a stylized architectural and geometric landscape symbolizing a vision of Canada for the 21st century.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Inscribed with 'CANADA', '1999', 'DECEMBER DÉCEMBRE'. Small initials 'JLPP' denote the student designer, J.L. Pierre-Pepin.
Construction Details
Machine-struck/Die-struck at the Royal Canadian Mint's Winnipeg facility using high-pressure coinage presses.
Functional Features
Serrate/Reeded edge to prevent clipping; legal tender denomination of 25 cents in Canada.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (coinage). Edge is reeded for tactile recognition.
Craftsmanship Details
High-speed precision striking; the design shows excellent depth for a mass-produced circulation coin, characteristic of RCM technology.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive matte finish of the 1999 series, correct font for 'CANADA', and crisp denticles along the inner rim.
Origin & Manufacturing
Winnipeg, Canada; Royal Canadian Mint.
Era & Period
Modern Era (Late 20th Century), specifically part of the 1999-2000 Millennium celebrations.
Age Estimate
Minted in 1999; 25 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represented a nationalistic transition into the 21st century, celebrating Canadian identity through public participation in art.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition (Very Good to Fine). Visible light surface scratching (bag marks) and minor flattening of highest relief points; no significant tarnish or corrosion.
Value Estimate
Circulated: $0.25 - $1.00 USD. Uncirculated (MS-65): $2.00 - $5.00 USD. Silver Proof Versions: $15.00 - $25.00 USD.
Care & Maintenance
For circulation coins, avoid acidic cleaners. Store in non-PVC flips or cardboard 2x2s to prevent environmental 'milk spots' or surface degradation.
Similar Pieces
1999 November 'The Plane' quarter, 2000 Millennium series quarters, and the 1992 Confederation 125 series.
Interesting Facts
Over 33,000 designs were submitted by Canadians for this series. This was the first time the Royal Canadian Mint changed the reverse design of the quarter every month for a year.