1951 Canadian Nickel 200th Anniversary Commemorative 5-Cent Coin
Coin/Bullion · Royal Canadian Mint, the official national mint of Canada known for high-quality numismatic and circulation coinage since 1908.
Pattern: Nickel Bicentennial Commemorative Reverse; production was limited to the year 1951.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Royal Canadian Mint, the official national mint of Canada known for high-quality numismatic and circulation coinage since 1908.
Material
Nearly 100% pure Nickel (99.9% Ni). While the item has a silver-tone appearance, it contains no silver content. A small portion of 1951 nickels were later struck in chrome-plated steel due to nickel shortages during the Korean War, but this specimen appears to be the nickel variety.
Dimensions
Diameter: 21.21 mm; Weight: 4.54 grams; Thickness: 1.73 mm.
Description
An iconic piece of Canadian numismatics, this 1951 nickel celebrates the 200th anniversary of the naming of the element nickel. Unlike the standard beaver design, this coin features an industrial refinery scene, reflecting Canada’s role as a global leader in nickel mining.
Key Features
Dodecagonal (12-sided) shape; commemorative refinery motif; '1751-1951' date range; high-pure nickel composition.
Material & Composition
Nearly 100% pure Nickel (99.9% Ni). While the item has a silver-tone appearance, it contains no silver content. A small portion of 1951 nickels were later struck in chrome-plated steel due to nickel shortages during the Korean War, but this specimen appears to be the nickel variety.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish with relief engraving. Features a 12-sided (dodecagonal) shape. The reverse depicts a nickel refinery with a tall smokestack, flanked by three maple leaves at the bottom.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Inscribed 'CANADA' at the top, '5 CENTS' across the center, and 'NICKEL 1751-1951' highlighting the discovery of nickel by Axel Fredrik Cronstedt.
Construction Details
Die-struck at the Royal Canadian Mint using heavy industrial presses. The planchet was specifically shaped into 12 sides to distinguish it from other coins during low-light conditions.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency for the Dominion of Canada (nominal value 5 cents). The flat edges provide a tactile grip.
Handle & Grip Details
Flat, 12-sided rim design without a specific handle or external grip; intended for manual circulation and pocket handling.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision industrial die-striking; notable for the crispness of the dodecagonal rim which remains visible despite 70+ years of wear.
Authentication Indicators
Correct 12-sided geometry; alignment of ‘NICKEL’ text; characteristic greyish-white patina of 99.9% nickel; lack of rust indicates it is likely solid nickel rather than the plated steel variant.
Origin & Manufacturing
Ottawa, Canada; Royal Canadian Mint facility.
Era & Period
Modern Era / Post-WWII Canadian Numismatics (1951); George VI reign.
Age Estimate
Produced in 1951 (73 years old).
Cultural Significance
Represents the historical importance of the mining industry to the Canadian economy, specifically the Sudbury, Ontario nickel deposits.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F) circulation condition. Shows significant surface wear, softening of the refinery details, and minor scratches/nicks consistent with commercial use.
Value Estimate
Numismatic value ranges from $0.50 to $2.00 USD for circulated examples; high-grade Mint State (MS) examples can fetch $20-$50.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish with silver creams as it is not silver. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent further surface oxidation and 'milk spots' common to nickel.
Similar Pieces
1951 Canadian Beaver Nickel (Steel variety), 1948 Silver Canadian Dime (contains .800 silver), and 1951 US Jefferson Nickel (Copper-Nickel alloy).
Interesting Facts
Due to the Korean War, nickel became a strategic metal. This caused the Canadian mint to switch mid-year to chrome-plated steel, making the pure nickel versions of this commemorative highly representative of the era's industrial pride.