Canadian Elizabeth II 25-Cent Circulation Coin
Coin/Bullion · Royal Canadian Mint (RCM), established in 1908 in Ottawa, known for high-quality strikes and purities.
Pattern: Standard Circulation Quarter - Machin Second Portrait Obverse
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Royal Canadian Mint (RCM), established in 1908 in Ottawa, known for high-quality strikes and purities.
Material
Likely Nickel (1968-1999) or Nickel-Plated Steel (post-2000). Pre-1968 examples were 80% silver, but the high luster and wear pattern shown suggest a base metal circulation strike.
Dimensions
Diameter: 23.88 mm; Weight: 5.05 grams (if post-2000) or 4.4 grams (if 1968-1999 nickel).
Description
A classic example of Canadian numismatic history, this 25-cent piece features the elegant second portrait of Queen Elizabeth II wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. The coin exhibits the bright, cold luster typical of Canadian nickel issues.
Key Features
Machin portrait; 'D.G. REGINA' title; distinct denticle (beaded) rim; Canadian heraldic design.
Material & Composition
Likely Nickel (1968-1999) or Nickel-Plated Steel (post-2000). Pre-1968 examples were 80% silver, but the high luster and wear pattern shown suggest a base metal circulation strike.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike with a satin-to-mirror finish; features Arnold Machin's effigy of Queen Elizabeth II; beaded border design with 'D.G. REGINA' (By the Grace of God, Queen) latin inscription.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse: ELIZABETH II D.G. REGINA. No purity marks as it is a legal tender circulation coin.
Construction Details
Machine-struck using hardened steel dies in a high-speed industrial minting press.
Functional Features
Reeded edge (milled) to prevent 'clipping' of the metal and to assist visually impaired users in identification.
Handle & Grip Details
None; circular flat disc intended for pocket transit.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision industrial die-striking; exhibits high relief in the portrait despite being a high-volume circulation piece.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font spacing, authentic Machin portrait bust hallmarks, and rim bead consistency. Lacks the 'bloom' of a silver coin, confirming it as a nickel-based circulation alloy.
Origin & Manufacturing
Canada; minted in Ottawa, Ontario or Winnipeg, Manitoba by the Royal Canadian Mint.
Era & Period
Modern Era (Elizabeth II Regency); specifically the 1965-1989 portrait style period.
Age Estimate
Circa 1965-1989 based on the 'Young Head' second portrait design used during these years.
Cultural Significance
A fundamental unit of Canadian commerce; represents the transition from precious metal coinage to industrial metal currency in the late 1960s.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine; visible surface scratches (bag marks), minor rim dings, and slight flattening of the hair detail due to circulation wear.
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.25 CAD) unless it is a rare error or high-grade silver variety; numismatic value roughly $0.50-$1.00 for common nickel dates.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as it ruins numismatic value; store in a PVC-free flip if keeping as a collectible.
Similar Pieces
1967 Centennial Quarter (Lynx design), 1973 RCMP Jubilee Quarter, and pre-1968 80% Silver Quarters.
Interesting Facts
The portrait on this coin was used for nearly 25 years before being replaced by the Dora de Pédery-Hunt 'Old Head' design in 1990.