1999 Canadian Millennium Quarter (September Issue: 'A Nation of People')
Coin/Bullion · Royal Canadian Mint (RCM). Founded in 1908, the RCM is a Crown corporation of Canada, world-renowned for high-quality strikes and innovative coin programs.
Pattern: 1999 Millennium Series (12-coin monthly series). This specific design is for September, titled 'A Nation of People'.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Royal Canadian Mint (RCM). Founded in 1908, the RCM is a Crown corporation of Canada, world-renowned for high-quality strikes and innovative coin programs.
Material
Cuppro-nickel (Copper-Nickel over Nickel core) for circulation versions; the item shown appears to be the standard circulation base metal version. Note: A separate sterling silver (.925) proof version for collectors also exists.
Dimensions
Diameter: 23.88 mm. Thickness: 1.58 mm. Weight: 4.4 grams for the cupro-nickel circulation strike; the sterling silver variant weighs 5.9 grams.
Description
This charming 25-cent piece was part of a visionary series where Canadians submitted designs for the new millennium. The September issue, 'A Nation of People', features a whimsical, hand-drawn aesthetic by Claudia Bertrand, symbolizing the unity and friendly nature of Canadian society through three figures holding hands. It is a poignant cultural artifact from the 'Millennium fever' that gripped the late 1990s.
Key Features
Stick-figure artwork differing from the traditional caribou design; dual-language month inscription; commemorative 1999 date (separate from the 2000 millennium date).
Material & Composition
Cuppro-nickel (Copper-Nickel over Nickel core) for circulation versions; the item shown appears to be the standard circulation base metal version. Note: A separate sterling silver (.925) proof version for collectors also exists.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish. Detailed with a 'childlike' line-drawing style (stick figures) representing Canadian citizens holding hands. Beaded border with 'Canada' at bottom and '1999 September Septembre' at top.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraver's initials 'CD' (for Claudia Bertrand) visible to the right of the figures. Inscribed 'CANADA', 'SEPTEMBER', 'SEPTEMBRE', and '1999'. The obverse (not shown) would feature Susanna Blunt's Queen Elizabeth II effigy.
Construction Details
Precision die-struck on a planchet at the Royal Canadian Mint's Winnipeg facility (circulation) or Ottawa facility (proofs). Machine-manufactured with reeded edges.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency in Canada with a face value of 25 Cents. Features a 'reeded' (milled) edge to prevent counterfeiting and clipping.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Numismatic item designed for hand-to-hand transactions).
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality machine striking. Despite the simplistic artwork, the depth of the field and the crispness of the lettering demonstrate the RCM's technical precision in mass production.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive matte-grey color of nickel-plated steel/copper-nickel; correct font and spacing for RCM 1999 issues; 'CD' initials match official records; appropriate edge reeding.
Origin & Manufacturing
Winnipeg or Ottawa, Canada. Manufactured by the Royal Canadian Mint, a global leader in minting technology.
Era & Period
Modern Era (Turn of the Millennium). Part of the massive 1999-2000 commemorative programs celebrating the transition to the 21st century.
Age Estimate
Issued in September 1999. Exactly 25 years old as of current date.
Cultural Significance
Represents the inclusion of public art in currency and Canada's transition into the 21st century with a focus on human connection and community rather than traditional heraldry.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Visible circulation wear on the higher relief of the stick figures; light surface scratches and 'pocket wear' consistent with a coin that has or could have been in active circulation. Tarnish is light grey, consistent with nickel/copper oxidation.
Value Estimate
$0.25 (Face value) in circulated condition; $1.00 - $3.00 if Uncirculated. The .925 Silver Proof version trades for $15 - $25 USD.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with silver creams, as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or cardboard 2x2. Avoid handling with bare hands to prevent skin oils from causing 'milk spots' or uneven toning.
Similar Pieces
1999 October 'A Celebration' quarter; 2000 Millennium quarter series; the 1999 sterling silver proof version (detectable by its higher luster and heavier 5.9g weight).
Interesting Facts
The design was chosen through a national contest called 'Create a Cents-ation!' which received over 33,000 entries from across Canada. This specific design was created by a young student.