2002 Canadian Golden Jubilee Two-Dollar Circulation Coin (Toonie)
Coin/Bullion · Royal Canadian Mint (RCM). The RCM is a Crown corporation of Canada, established in 1908 in Ottawa, known for its high-quality circulation and numismatic commemorative coins.
Pattern: Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee (1952-2002) Commemorative Issue
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Royal Canadian Mint (RCM). The RCM is a Crown corporation of Canada, established in 1908 in Ottawa, known for its high-quality circulation and numismatic commemorative coins.
Material
Bimetallic. Outer ring: 99% nickel; inner core: 92% copper, 6% aluminum, 2% nickel. Note: This item contains 0% silver and is not a precious metal object.
Dimensions
Diameter: 28.03 mm; Thickness: 1.8 mm; Weight: 7.30 grams.
Description
This is a Canadian two-dollar coin, familiarly known as a 'Toonie,' issued in 2002 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's accession to the throne. Unlike standard Toonies which feature the year and value on the reverse alongside a polar bear, this commemorative obverse displays the dual dates 1952-2002 to honor the Jubilee. While it has a high-lustre metallic appearance, it is not silver; the silver-colored outer ring is actually pure nickel.
Key Features
Bimetallic construction (silver-tinted ring, gold-tinted core), Elizabeth II Dora de P
Material & Composition
Bimetallic. Outer ring: 99% nickel; inner core: 92% copper, 6% aluminum, 2% nickel. Note: This item contains 0% silver and is not a precious metal object.
Finish & Decoration
Circulation-grade specimen. The obverse features the 1990 effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Dora de P
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silver hallmarks. Inscriptions: 'ELIZABETH II D. G. REGINA' (Obverse), '1952-2002', small maple leaf symbol at the top, and 'CANADA 2 DOLLARS' (Reverse, not visible). Small 'P' below the effigy may indicate plated steel (though typically for this year and metal, it represents the RCM logo or specific minting process).
Construction Details
Strike-minted; bimetallic assembly where the core is inserted into the outer ring and then struck, which locks the two pieces together through mechanical force.
Functional Features
Currency of legal tender in Canada. Features a serrated/reeded edge to prevent debasement and for accessibility for the visually impaired.
Handle & Grip Details
None; standard coin edges.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial high-speed minting. Precise alignment of the center core and outer ring proves standard RCM manufacturing quality.
Authentication Indicators
Weight and diameter match official RCM specifications for the 2002 commemorative two-dollar coin. Visual alignment of the dual-date inscription is correct.
Origin & Manufacturing
Canada; Winnipeg or Ottawa facilities of the Royal Canadian Mint.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Modern Canada); Golden Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II.
Age Estimate
Produced in 2002.
Cultural Significance
Represents the constitutional monarchy's role in Canada and the widespread celebration of the late Queen's long reign.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition. Shows significant bag marks, surface scratches, and contact dings consistent with general use. Lustre is somewhat dull. Grade: Good to Very Good (Circulated).
Value Estimate
Face value of $2.00 CAD ($1.50 USD approx). In high-grade Uncirculated condition, it may fetch $3-$5 CAD among collectors.
Care & Maintenance
No specialized silver care required as it is base metal. Can be stored in standard coin 2x2 holders to prevents further scratching. Do not use silver dip or polish.
Similar Pieces
Standard 2002 Toonie (Polar Bear design), 2002 Sterling Silver Jubilee Commemorative Proof Coins (which contain actual silver), and the 2012 Diamond Jubilee edition.
Interesting Facts
The Canadian Toonie was first introduced in 1996 to replace the two-dollar bill. In 2002, the RCM varied the design of nearly all circulating denominations to celebrate the Golden Jubilee.