Quick Coinage Facts
Years Minted: 1937-1952
Composition: 80% Silver
Diameter: 30 mm
Weight: 11.66 grams (.300 oz of silver)
Total Series Mintage: 23,599,633
Obverse Design: Bust Design
Reverse Design: Coat of Arms
Unique Features: none
Introduction
The obverse, designed & engraved by T.H. Paget, features the bust of George the VI facing left. At the bottom of George's neck are the designer’s initials “HP”. On the outer periphery are the words "GEORGIVS VI D:G : REX ET IND : IMP :".
The reverse, designed & engraved by W G. E. Kruger-Gray, features the Canadian Coat of Arms. The Coat of Arms design features a shield with a crown above. To the right is a unicorn supporting a flag while to the right is a lion also supporting a flag. Above the design is the denomination “50 CENTS and below the design is the word “CANADA” and the year of issue. On either side of the crown are the designers initials "K" (left side) and "G" (right side).
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Major Varieties
In 1947 India received its independence. The obverse legend "IND IMP" (India's Emperor) had to be removed from the King's titles on any British Commonwealth coins dating 1948 or newer.
Variety 1 – 1937-1947 Old Obverse Legend
Variety 2 – 1948-1952 New Obverse Legend
Variety 3 - 1947 Maple Leaf by date
General Market Notes
For years that may be potential sleepers look at the 1937 and 1947 issues.
For the investor, the keys to the series (excluding proofs & errors) are the 1938, 1947 (with maple leaf), and 1948 issues. The semi-keys are the 1939, 1945, 1946, 1947 (no maple leaf) and 1949 issues.