Canadian Elizabeth II Twenty-Five Cent Coin (Quarter)
Coin/Bullion · Royal Canadian Mint (RCM)
Pattern: Caribou (Standard Circulation)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Royal Canadian Mint (RCM)
Material
Nickel (1968–1999) or Nickel-Plated Steel (2000–present); likely pure nickel based on the 1965–1989 portrait style. Note: 1967 and earlier were 80% silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 23.88 mm (0.94 in); Thickness: 1.58 mm; Weight: 5.05 grams (Nickel) or 4.4 grams (Steel).
Description
A standard circulation 25-cent Canadian coin featuring the second official portrait of Queen Elizabeth II wearing a tiara. This design is iconic to Canadian currency of the late 20th century.
Key Features
Reeded edge, Arnold Machin effigy, DG REGINA legend, and characteristic Canadian nickel-grey luster.
Material & Composition
Nickel (1968–1999) or Nickel-Plated Steel (2000–present); likely pure nickel based on the 1965–1989 portrait style. Note: 1967 and earlier were 80% silver.
Finish & Decoration
Struck circulation finish with the Arnold Machin effigy of Queen Elizabeth II; DG REGINA (By the Grace of God, Queen) inscription and denticulated border.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silversmith hallmarks; features the 'ELIZABETH II DUAL-G-REGINA' obverse legend and likely the caribou reverse (not visible).
Construction Details
Machine die-struck on a planchet at the Royal Canadian Mint; reeded edge.
Functional Features
Monetary denomination; reeded edge to prevent clipping or debasement.
Handle & Grip Details
None (not applicable for coinage).
Craftsmanship Details
High-speed industrial die-striking; consistent with mass-produced government-issued legal tender.
Authentication Indicators
Weight and diameter consistency, crispness of the lettering, and proper reeding on the edge. Non-magnetic if 1968-1999 nickel, magnetic if post-2000 steel.
Origin & Manufacturing
Canada; struck at the Ottawa or Winnipeg facilities of the Royal Canadian Mint.
Era & Period
Modern Era; Second Portrait (Arnold Machin) used on Canadian coinage from 1965 to 1989.
Age Estimate
Circa 1965–1989 (based on the young portrait with the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara).
Cultural Significance
A staple of Canadian commerce and a symbol of the Commonwealth's link to the British Monarchy throughout the late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Good; visible surface scratches, moderate tarnish/grime near the edges, and minor rim dings. Dull luster suggests heavy circulation.
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.25 CAD). If minted 1967 or earlier, contains silver value (approx $4-$5 USD); nickel versions have no significant numismatic premium unless in Mint State.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid acidic cleaners; for collectors, store in PVC-free flips or capsules to prevent 'milk spots' or environmental damage.
Similar Pieces
1967 Centennial Quarter (features a lynx), 1973 RCMP Centennial Quarter, and contemporary US Quarters (slightly larger at 24.26mm).
Interesting Facts
The caribou design on the reverse was created by Emanuel Hahn and first appeared in 1937. Canada was one of the first countries to switch from silver to pure nickel for coinage in 1968.