The 1991 Canadian 1 Cent is part of the third portrait series of Queen Elizabeth II, introduced in 1990. This design marks a significant change, featuring a more mature depiction of the Queen, created by Dora de Pédery-Hunt—the first Canadian woman to design a Canadian coin. The coin also reintroduces the 12-sided dodecagonal shape, originally used in the 1980s, making it a unique and recognizable issue.
Obverse (Front)
The obverse features:
- A right-facing portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, at age 64, wearing a royal diadem, necklace, and earrings.
- The inscription "ELIZABETH II D·G·REGINA" (Latin for "Elizabeth II, Queen by the Grace of God").
- The portrait was designed by Dora de Pédery-Hunt, making it the first Canadian-designed effigy of the Queen.
Reverse (Back)
The reverse showcases a maple twig with two leaves, symbolizing Canada's national heritage. The inscriptions include:
- "1 CENT" at the top,
- "CANADA" at the bottom,
- The year 1991 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: Dodecagonal (12-sided)
- Edge: Plain
- Mint: Royal Canadian Mint (Ottawa & Winnipeg)
- KM#181
Why Collect the 1991 Canada 1 Cent?
The 1991 Canadian Penny is an important numismatic piece as part of the third portrait series, featuring the first Queen’s portrait designed by a Canadian. Additionally, its 12-sided shape sets it apart from many other Canadian cents.
