The 1986 Canadian 1 Cent marks a significant return to the traditional round shape, ending the short-lived 12-sided dodecagonal design used from 1982 to 1985. While the coin retains its high-copper bronze composition, it represents an important transition in Canadian numismatics. The classic maple twig design continues, making this issue both historically and aesthetically valuable.
Obverse (Front)
The obverse features:
- A right-facing portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, wearing a tiara.
- 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 showcases a maple twig with two leaves, a signature Canadian symbol. The rim features a beaded border, continuing the refined design introduced in 1982. The inscriptions include:
- "1 CENT" at the top,
- "CANADA" at the bottom,
- The year 1986 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, 1.75% Tin, 0.25% Zinc)
- Weight: 2.5 grams
- Diameter: 19.1 mm
- Thickness: 1.45 mm
- Shape: Round (Reintroduced in 1986)
- Edge: Plain
- Mint: Royal Canadian Mint (Winnipeg)
- KM#132
Why Collect the 1986 Canada 1 Cent?
The 1986 Canadian Penny is a key transition coin, marking the return to the round shape after a brief experiment with a 12-sided design. Its high copper content and historical significance make it a must-have for numismatists and copper investors alike.
