Canadian Elizabeth II 5-Cent Coin (Nickel), 1953-1962 issue
Coin / Numismatic Object · Royal Canadian Mint (RCM), Ottawa. Established in 1908, the RCM is renowned for its high-quality circulation and collector coinage.
Pattern: Young Head Portrait of Elizabeth II by Mary Gillick
Type
Coin / Numismatic Object
Maker
Royal Canadian Mint (RCM), Ottawa. Established in 1908, the RCM is renowned for its high-quality circulation and collector coinage.
Material
Nickel (99.9% pure). Note: While often called 'silver' in color, Canadian nickels of this era contain no silver. The last silver Canadian nickels were issued in 1921.
Dimensions
Diameter: 21.21 mm; Weight: 4.54 grams; Shape: 12-sided (dodecagonal).
Description
A classic piece of mid-century Canadian numismatics, this 12-sided nickel features the elegant Laureate portrait of Queen Elizabeth II in her youth. Known for its distinct shape and high nickel purity, it represents the backbone of Canadian commerce during the post-war era.
Key Features
12-sided rim; Mary Gillick 'Young Head' effigy; Pure nickel composition; Inscription without 'BRITT OMN' (post-1953 design).
Material & Composition
Nickel (99.9% pure). Note: While often called 'silver' in color, Canadian nickels of this era contain no silver. The last silver Canadian nickels were issued in 1921.
Finish & Decoration
High-relief die-struck finish. Features the 'Laureate' portrait of a young Queen Elizabeth II facing right. The edge is smooth/plain. The reverse (not shown) typically features a beaver on a log.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse inscription: 'ELIZABETH II DEI GRATIA REGINA' (Elizabeth II, by the grace of God, Queen). No silver hallmarks are present as this is legal tender currency.
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck coin produced by high-pressure mechanical presses from nickel planchets (blanks).
Functional Features
Dodecagonal shape (12-sided) purposefully designed to help visually impaired individuals distinguish the coin from a cent or quarter by touch.
Handle & Grip Details
None (Currency item).
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced industrial coinage. High precision in die-cutting of the Gillick effigy, showing excellent detail in the laurel wreath and hair ribbons.
Authentication Indicators
Correct 12-sided geometry; alignment of the legend 'DEI GRATIA REGINA'; characteristic luster of circulated 99.9% nickel; sharp denticles around the rim.
Origin & Manufacturing
Ottawa, Canada; Royal Canadian Mint.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Early Elizabethan Era (1950s-1960s).
Age Estimate
Circa 1953-1962. The use of the Gillick portrait and the dodecagonal shape identifies this specific production window.
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition of the British monarchy and Canadian national identity in the early Cold War period. The beaver reverse design is a national symbol of Canada.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition (Very Good to Fine). Visible surface wear on the hair details and high points; light scratching and bag marks consistent with pocket wear. Tarnish is minimal due to the durability of nickel.
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.05 CAD). Nuismatic value for a circulated specimen is minimal ($0.10 - $0.50 USD) unless it is a specific error or 1953 'No Shoulder Fold' variety.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with silver cleaners. For collectors, keep in a PVC-free 'flip' or capsule to prevent 'milk spots' or environmental damage. Gentle soap and water are only for removing surface dirt.
Similar Pieces
1942-1945 Tombac/Chrome nickels (different color/alloy); 1963-present round nickels (same value, different shape); British Sixpence (similar size, different portrait/country).
Interesting Facts
The 12-sided shape was introduced in 1942 to help people tell nickels from pennies during WWII when nickels were made of tombac (a brass alloy). The shape survived until 1963.