Canadian 1-Dollar 'Loonie' Circulation Coin
Coin (Circulation Currency) · Aureate Bronze-Plated Nickel (91.5% nickel, 8.5% bronze plating). The 'gold' appearance is a thin outer layer of bronze.
Purity: Non-precious (0.0% Gold). This item contains no gold content. It is a base metal circulation coin.
Type
Coin (Circulation Currency)
Purity
Non-precious (0.0% Gold). This item contains no gold content. It is a base metal circulation coin.
Gold Type
Aureate Bronze-Plated Nickel (91.5% nickel, 8.5% bronze plating). The 'gold' appearance is a thin outer layer of bronze.
Weight
6.27 grams (Standard mint weight for this specification). The value is in the currency denomination, not bullion weight.
Description
The Canadian 'Loonie' is a gold-colored, 11-sided circulation coin that replaced the one-dollar bill in Canada. While it possesses a bright metallic yellow sheen, it is entirely a base metal composition designed for durability in commerce. This side (obverse) shows the right-facing profile of Queen Elizabeth II.
Key Features
11-sided hendecagonal shape; aureate bronze plating; portrait of Queen Elizabeth II; 'ELIZABETH II D.G. REGINA' text.
Color & Finish
Yellow-gold hue due to bronze plating. The finish is a satin-like luster typical of circulated currency, showing minor surface scratches and contact marks.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None. It features legal tender inscriptions: 'ELIZABETH II' and 'D.G. REGINA' (Dei Gratia Regina - By the Grace of God, Queen).
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 26.5 mm; Thickness: 1.95 mm. It features a distinctive 11-sided (hendecagonal) shape.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The coin relies on relief engravings of the royal effigy.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Reeded or plain edge; this coin has a smooth, plain edge along its 11 sides).
Chain & Links
Not applicable structural design. The coin features an 11-sided rim profile.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced via high-speed industrial coin presses. The relief is clear but lacks the high-definition detail found on proof-quality gold bullion or commemorative medallions.
Authentication Indicators
Correct 11-sided geometry; standard Canadian mint typography; bronze-on-nickel color. Red flag: This is frequently mistaken for gold by laypeople due to its color, but it is a common circulation coin.
Origin & Maker
Canada; struck by the Royal Canadian Mint.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century to Contemporary (1987-Present). This specific effigy (Dora de Pédery-Hunt design) was used between 1990 and 2002.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2002 based on the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II wearing the George IV State Diadem.
Cultural Significance
A fundamental icon of Canadian identity and currency; its introduction in 1987 marked a major shift in Canadian fiscal habits and the removal of the one-dollar paper note.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition. Shows moderate contact marks, small scratches, and slight dulling of the original mint luster. Grade: Approximately VF (Very Fine) in numismatic terms.
Value Estimate
1.00 CAD (Face Value). It has no melt value in gold and is not a rare numismatic date. In the current market, it is worth exactly its denomination.
Care & Maintenance
No special care needed as it is a base metal coin. Collectors should avoid harsh chemical cleaners to preserve the remaining mint luster.
Similar Items
1-Dollar 'Voyageur' Silver Coins (pre-1968) or 1oz Gold Maple Leaf Bullion (24K Gold). Key difference: This item has no gold content and is a common circulation issue.
Interesting Facts
The coin was originally intended to feature a 'Voyageur' canoe design, but the dies were lost in transit, leading the mint to use the now-famous 'Loon' design for the reverse to prevent counterfeiting.