Canadian 10-Cent Coin (Dime), Elizabeth II Portrait
Coin/Bullion · Royal Canadian Mint. Established in 1908 in Ottawa, the RCM is world-renowned for its high-quality circulation and collector coinage, often leading in technological innovations in minting.
Pattern: Standard Circulation Design (Bluenose Schooner on reverse, Queen Elizabeth II on obverse). This version features the Susanna Blunt effigy.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Royal Canadian Mint. Established in 1908 in Ottawa, the RCM is world-renowned for its high-quality circulation and collector coinage, often leading in technological innovations in minting.
Material
Typically multi-ply plated steel (94.75% steel, 2% copper, 3.25% nickel plating) for recent issues. If dated prior to 1968, it would be 80% silver; from 1968-1999, it was pure nickel. Given the high-sheen and the effigy style, this is likely a modern base-metal plated coin.
Dimensions
Diameter: 18.03 mm. Thickness: 1.22 mm. Mass: Approximately 1.75 grams for current plated-steel versions.
Description
A standard Canadian ten-cent piece, commonly known as a dime. It features the mature portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Susanna Blunt. The piece shows a high-gloss finish characteristic of modern steel-core Canadian currency, which utilizes advanced electroplating technology.
Key Features
Susanna Blunt effigy of Queen Elizabeth II; 'D.G. Regina' Latin inscription; 'Canada' minting designation; steel core construction identified by the high luster and magnetic properties.
Material & Composition
Typically multi-ply plated steel (94.75% steel, 2% copper, 3.25% nickel plating) for recent issues. If dated prior to 1968, it would be 80% silver; from 1968-1999, it was pure nickel. Given the high-sheen and the effigy style, this is likely a modern base-metal plated coin.
Finish & Decoration
Die-struck with a proof-like or circulation luster. Features the 'D.G. Regina' inscription (By the Grace of God, Queen) and the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II wearing jewelry and a crown. The border is rimmed and the edges are typically reeded.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silver hallmarks as it is currency. Features the Royal Canadian Mint 'P' or 'Maple Leaf' logo beneath the portrait (if modern), and the legal tender denominations on the reverse side (not shown).
Construction Details
Machine-struck/Die-struck. Mass-produced at high speed using high-pressure hydraulic presses in a mint facility. Features cold-struck relief detailing.
Functional Features
Serrated/Reeded edges to prevent debasement and assist visually impaired users in identification. High durability for circulation.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; standard flat coin form designed for pocket use and vending machines.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-manufactured with high precision. The detail in the Queen's hair and the crispness of the lettering indicate modern die-striking techniques of a high industrial standard.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styles and portrait rendering for the Royal Canadian Mint; characteristic 'reeded' edge; standard diameter; magnetic attraction (standard for post-2000 Canadian dimes).
Origin & Manufacturing
Canada; specifically the Royal Canadian Mint's production facility in Winnipeg or Ottawa.
Era & Period
Late Elizabethan Era (21st Century). Specifically post-2003 based on the Susanna Blunt portrait of the Queen without a tiara/crown.
Age Estimate
Circa 2003–2022. The portrait of Elizabeth II shown was introduced in 2003 and used until her passing.
Cultural Significance
A fundamental unit of Canadian currency and a symbol of the Commonwealth connection. The effigy of the monarch reflects Canada’s status as a constitutional monarchy.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. The surface shows minor handling marks and light circulation scratches. No significant oxidation (rust) visible, suggesting the plating is intact.
Value Estimate
Face value: $0.10 CAD. For numismatic collectors, unless a rare error or a perfect proof strike, its value is its legal tender equivalent.
Care & Maintenance
No specific care needed for circulation coins. For collectors, keep in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent environmental toning or 'copper spotting' in plated versions.
Similar Pieces
American Dime (larger, different composition); older Silver Canadian Dimes (pre-1968, containing 80% or 92.5% silver with different portraits).
Interesting Facts
The Canadian dime has featured the 'Bluenose' schooner on the reverse since 1937. It is the only Canadian coin where the name of the denomination ('10 cents') is not actually written in English or French; instead, it simply says '10 cents'.