2005 Canadian Caribou Quarter (25 Cents)
Coin/Bullion · Royal Canadian Mint (RCM); founded in Ottawa in 1908, known for high-quality precision minting and innovative security features.
Pattern: Standard Circulation Series; Caribou design first introduced in 1937, created by Emanuel Hahn.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Royal Canadian Mint (RCM); founded in Ottawa in 1908, known for high-quality precision minting and innovative security features.
Material
Nickel-plated steel (94% steel, 3.8% copper, 2.2% nickel); this specific date is not precious metal silver, though it mimics the appearance of silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 23.88 mm; Weight: 4.4 grams; Thickness: 1.58 mm.
Description
A standard Canadian 25-cent circulation coin featuring the iconic profile of a Caribou, an image synonymous with Canadian numismatics since the late 1930s. Despite its silver appearance, this is a utilitarian piece of currency designed for high durability in commerce.
Key Features
Caribou reverse design, 2005 date, reeded edge, and the Susanna Blunt portrait of the Queen with no crown.
Material & Composition
Nickel-plated steel (94% steel, 3.8% copper, 2.2% nickel); this specific date is not precious metal silver, though it mimics the appearance of silver.
Finish & Decoration
Mint circulation finish; features the signature Caribou head on the reverse and Susanna Blunt's effigy of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'CANADA', '25 Cents', and '2005' on the reverse; includes the 'P' composition mark (indicating plated steel) or the RCM logo depending on the minting run.
Construction Details
Machine-struck/die-struck; multi-ply plated steel technology developed by the Royal Canadian Mint.
Functional Features
Serrated/reeded edge for tactile identification and to prevent clipping; legal tender in Canada.
Handle & Grip Details
None; handheld coin format.
Craftsmanship Details
High-speed industrial minting; precision die striking ensures thousands of identical units with consistent relief and edge reeding.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive reeded edge, specific 2005 date font, and the matte grey-silver luster characteristic of nickel-plated steel.
Origin & Manufacturing
Winnipeg, Manitoba facility of the Royal Canadian Mint, Canada.
Era & Period
Modern Era; Elizabeth II Reign (Fourth Portrait period).
Age Estimate
Dated 2005; 19 years old as of 2024.
Cultural Significance
Representing Canada's natural heritage, the 'Quarter' is the most used coin for vending and laundry services in North America, acting as a daily reminder of Canadian wildlife.
Condition Notes
Circulated; shows typical surface contact marks (bag marks), light scratches, and general wear from commerce. Grade: Very Good to Fine.
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.25 CAD); in circulated condition, it carries no significant numismatic premium.
Care & Maintenance
No cleaning recommended as it is circulation currency; for collectors, store in a PVC-free plastic flip or album to prevent further surface oxidation.
Similar Pieces
1937-1967 Canadian Quarters (80% Silver); 1968 Quarters (some 50% Silver, some Nickel); 2005 commemorative quarters (e.g., Alberta or Saskatchewan centennials).
Interesting Facts
The Caribou design was chosen in 1937 to replace the previous design which depicted two crossed maple branches; it has remained largely unchanged for over 85 years.