Canada, 1 Cent, 1998 – Elizabeth II (Third Portrait), XF

The 1998 Canadian 1 Cent continues the copper-plated zinc composition that was first introduced in 1997. This shift replaced the traditional high-copper bronze cents, reducing production costs while maintaining the classic maple twig design. Minted by the Royal Canadian Mint, this penny is part of the modern era of Canadian coinage.

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, the first Canadian artist to create an effigy of the Queen.

Reverse (Back)

The reverse showcases a maple twig with two leaves, a timeless Canadian emblem. The inscriptions include:

• "1 CENT" at the top,
• "CANADA" at the bottom,
• The year 1998 positioned to the left of the maple twig,
• The engraver’s initials K·G· (George Kruger Gray) to the right.

Specifications

• Composition: Copper-Plated Zinc (98.4% Zinc, 1.6% Copper Plating)
• Weight: 2.25 grams
• Diameter: 19.05 mm
• Thickness: 1.45 mm
• Shape: Round
• Edge: Plain
• Mint: Royal Canadian Mint (Ottawa & Winnipeg)
• KM#289

Why Collect the 1998 Canada 1 Cent?

The 1998 Canadian Penny is an early issue of the modern copper-plated zinc composition, making it an important piece for collectors tracking Canada’s coinage evolution. With its iconic design and historical significance, it is a valuable addition for numismatists and coin enthusiasts.