Canadian 10-Cent Coin (Dime), Elizabeth II Obverse
Coin/Bullion · Royal Canadian Mint (RCM). The RCM is a Crown corporation responsible for the production of all Canada\'s circulation coins and is world-renowned for its refining and minting standards.
Pattern: Elizabeth II Portrait (Susanna Blunt design, 2003-2023)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Royal Canadian Mint (RCM). The RCM is a Crown corporation responsible for the production of all Canada\'s circulation coins and is world-renowned for its refining and minting standards.
Material
Likely multi-ply plated steel (94.5% steel, 3.8% copper, 1.7% nickel plating). Note: This is not a silver item; Canadian dimes have not contained silver since mid-1968.
Dimensions
18.03 mm diameter, 1.22 mm thickness, standard weight 1.75 grams.
Description
A standard circulating Canadian 10-cent piece featuring the right-facing portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. The obverse showcases the mature effigy of the monarch, known for being the first time since her accession that the portrait was rendered without a crown or tiara, emphasizing the Queen as a Person rather than just a Head of State.
Key Features
Susanna Blunt effigy, 'D.G. Regina' (Dei Gratia Regina) latin inscription, and the distinct denticulated border along the rim.
Material & Composition
Likely multi-ply plated steel (94.5% steel, 3.8% copper, 1.7% nickel plating). Note: This is not a silver item; Canadian dimes have not contained silver since mid-1968.
Finish & Decoration
High-relief mint strike with a frosted portrait (cameo effect) against a mirrored or proof-like field. Features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II facing right, without a crown (uncrowned), and a reeded edge.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse inscription: \"ELIZABETH II D·G·REGINA\". Features the small \"P\" composition mark or the RCM \"Logo\" jewel below the bust, indicating the plating process used by the mint.
Construction Details
Machine-struck using high-pressure dies at the Winnipeg or Ottawa branch of the Royal Canadian Mint from machine-prepared plated steel planchets.
Functional Features
Standard legal tender currency. Features a reeded (milled) edge to prevent clipping and provide tactile identification for the visually impaired.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; standard numismatic object intended for handheld use as currency.
Craftsmanship Details
High-volume industrial minting. Excellent die clarity and rim uniformity, though lacking the hand-wrought finishing of traditional silver hollowware.
Authentication Indicators
Correct diameter and strike quality for Royal Canadian Mint products; proper alignment of the legends and edge reeding; magnetic property consistent with post-2000 plated steel composition.
Origin & Manufacturing
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Primary facility for the production of Canadian circulation coinage.
Era & Period
Modern Era (specifically 2003-2023). This specific uncrowned portrait was introduced in 2003 to mark the Golden Jubilee and remained in use until the Queen\'s passing.
Age Estimate
Circa 2003-2022. The specific appearance of the Susanna Blunt effigy dates it within this 20-year window.
Cultural Significance
As part of the 10-cent 'Bluenose' series (though reverse is not shown), this coin represents the longest-running circulating coin design in Canadian history and a symbol of national identity.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine (Circulated). Visible surface scratches, minor edge nicks, and typical luster loss associated with pocket wear. No significant structural damage.
Value Estimate
Face value (CAD $0.10). In circulated condition, this item holds no silver bullion value and no significant numismatic premium.
Care & Maintenance
As a non-silver circulation coin, no special cleaning is required. For collectors, avoid abrasive polishing; store in non-PVC flips to prevent 'green slime' (plasticizer) damage.
Similar Pieces
Pre-1968 Canadian Dimes (80% silver), US Roosevelt Dimes (copper-nickel), and Canadian commemorative dimes (e.g., 2017 Centennial or 2021 Blue Poppy).
Interesting Facts
Susanna Blunt was only the second Canadian artist to design a royal effigy for Canadian coinage. The 'uncrowned' look was a deliberate move toward modern realism in numismatic art.