The 2006 Canadian 1 Cent is a unique and highly collectible issue due to the presence of multiple varieties. This was a transitional year where the Royal Canadian Mint produced cents with both non-magnetic (copper-plated zinc) and magnetic (copper-plated steel) compositions. Additionally, this year marks the introduction of the "P" mint mark on some cents, while others were issued without it. These variations make the 2006 penny a must-have for numismatists tracking Canadian coinage evolution.
Obverse (Front)
The obverse features:
- A right-facing portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, at age 77, without a crown, wearing a 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 Susanna Blunt, with engraving by Susan Taylor.
Reverse (Back)
The reverse showcases a maple twig with two leaves, a classic symbol of Canada. The inscriptions include:
- "1 CENT" at the top,
- "CANADA" at the bottom,
- The year 2006 positioned to the left of the maple twig,
- The engraver’s initials K·G· (George Kruger Gray) to the right.
Major 2006 Varieties
-
Non-Magnetic (Copper-Plated Zinc, No Mint Mark)
- Composition: 98.4% Zinc, 1.6% Copper Plating
- Weight: 2.25 g
- Magnetic: No
-
Magnetic (Copper-Plated Steel, No Mint Mark)
- Composition: 94% Steel, 4.5% Copper, 1.5% Nickel
- Weight: 2.35 g
- Magnetic: Yes
-
Magnetic (Copper-Plated Steel, with "P" Mint Mark)
- First issued with a small "P" mint mark below the Queen’s bust, indicating the use of steel core
- Same composition as the magnetic variety
Specifications
- Composition: Copper-Plated Zinc or Copper-Plated Steel (Varies by Variety)
- Weight: 2.25 g (Non-Magnetic), 2.35 g (Magnetic)
- Diameter: 19.05 mm
- Thickness: 1.45 mm
- Shape: Round
- Edge: Plain
- Mint: Royal Canadian Mint (Winnipeg & Ottawa)
- KM#490 (Non-Magnetic), KM#502 (Magnetic with "P" Mark)
Why Collect the 2006 Canada 1 Cent?
The 2006 Canadian Penny is a key transitional issue, offering multiple varieties with different compositions and mint marks. This makes it an exciting coin for collectors who enjoy variety hunting.
