The 1966 Canadian 1 Cent continues the use of the second portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, introduced in 1965. This version of the coin retains the classic maple twig reverse and is an important piece from the pre-decimal era of Canadian coinage. Minted at the Royal Canadian Mint in Ottawa, this coin remains a popular collectible due to its high copper content and historical significance.
Obverse (Front)
The obverse features:
- A right-facing portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, wearing a diadem.
- The inscription "ELIZABETH II D·G·REGINA" (Latin for "Elizabeth II, Queen by the Grace of God").
- The portrait was designed by Arnold Machin.
Reverse (Back)
The reverse displays the well-known maple twig with two leaves, a proud national symbol of Canada. The inscriptions include:
- "1 CENT" at the top,
- "CANADA" at the bottom,
- The date 1966 positioned to the left of the maple twig,
- The engraver’s initials K·G· (George Kruger Gray) to the right.
Specifications
- Composition: Bronze (98% Copper, 0.5% Tin, 1.5% Zinc)
- Weight: 3.24 grams
- Diameter: 19.05 mm
- Thickness: 1.65 mm
- Edge: Plain
- Mint: Royal Canadian Mint (Ottawa)
- KM#59.2
Why Collect the 1966 Canada 1 Cent?
The 1966 Canadian Penny is one of the last years before Canada transitioned to a smaller-sized cent in 1982. Its high copper content makes it appealing to metal investors, while its status as part of the second portrait series makes it a key coin for collectors of Canadian numismatics.
