Quick Coinage Facts
Years Minted: 1937-1952
Composition: 80% Silver, 20% Copper
Diameter: 23.88 mm
Weight: 5.83 grams (.150 oz of silver)
Total Series Mintage: 104,124,305
Obverse Design: Bust Design
Reverse Design: Coat of Arms
Unique Features: none
Introduction
1937 was not just a year for the appearance of a new monarch on Canadian coinage, it was also the year that introduced collectors to the modern “Caribou” design still in use today.
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 Emanuel Hahn, features a caribou’s head facing left. In the center of the antlers is the denomination “25 cents” while on the outer periphery is the word “CANADA” and the year of issue. Located at the base of the caribou’s neck is the designer’s initial “H”.
| Obverse | Reverse |
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| Obverse Initials |
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| Reverse Initial |
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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
Variety 3 - 1947 Dot by date
| Old Obv Legend | New Obv Legend |
|---|---|
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| Maple Leaf |
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General Market Notes
The key to the series is the 1947 “dot” variety issue. The remainder of the series is readily available and affordable.