Canadian dollar coins are often seen as a quick and easy way to pay for small purchases. But did you know that some of these coins are actually worth much more than their face value? In fact, certain Canadian dollar coins are highly prized by collectors and can sell for thousands, even hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on their rarity, age, and design.
In this article, we’ll take a look at six Canadian dollar coins that are worth much more than just a buck. If you’re lucky enough to find one of these rare coins in your pocket or your collection, you could be sitting on a small fortune!
1. The 1935 “Devil’s Face” Canadian Dollar Coin
The 1935 Canadian Dollar is famous for its design mistake, which gave it the nickname the “Devil’s Face” coin. The coin features King George V, but some of the early versions accidentally included a subtle design flaw that looked like the face of a devil. This mistake made the coin highly collectible and very valuable.
Why It’s Valuable:
The 1935 Devil’s Face Dollar is rare because the coin was pulled from circulation soon after it was released. Only a few were made before the error was corrected, and as a result, it can be worth anywhere from $4,000 to $10,000, depending on its condition.
How to Identify It:
Look closely at the portrait of King George V. If you see what looks like a “devilish” face near his chin, then you might have one of these rare coins.
2. The 1911 Canadian Silver Dollar
The 1911 Canadian Silver Dollar is considered one of the rarest Canadian coins. It was never officially released for public use and was only created as a test coin. Most of the coins were destroyed, so very few remain today.
Why It’s Valuable:
Because it was only produced in small numbers and wasn’t meant for circulation, the 1911 Silver Dollar is worth a lot. It can sell for between $200,000 to $500,000 at auctions, depending on its condition.
How to Identify It:
The coin has King George V’s portrait on one side and a maple leaf design on the other, along with the words “Canada Dollar” and the year “1911.”
3. The 1987 $1 “Voyageur” Coin
The 1987 Voyageur Dollar is a bit newer but still valuable. This coin was part of the Voyageur Dollar series that celebrated the fur trade and the voyageurs (French-Canadian fur traders) who played a big role in Canada’s history.
Why It’s Valuable:
While not as rare as the 1935 or 1911 coins, the 1987 Voyageur Dollar is still valuable due to its limited release. Some versions, especially proof coins, can sell for $100 or more.
How to Identify It:
This coin shows two voyageurs in a canoe, with a rising sun behind them. The image is distinctive and can help you spot this rare coin.
4. The 2000 Millennium Canadian Dollar Coin
The 2000 Millennium Canadian Dollar Coin was created to celebrate the turn of the century. Although it was produced in large numbers, the coin’s unique design and its historical importance make it valuable to collectors.
Why It’s Valuable:
This coin features designs representing the new millennium and Canada’s place in the world. Depending on its condition, the 2000 Millennium Coin can sell for between $100 to $250 or more.
How to Identify It:
The coin has the year “2000” marked on it, along with symbols that represent the changing of the millennium. You’ll easily recognize the design that includes a globe and the map of Canada.
5. The 1936 Canadian “Dot” Coin
The 1936 Canadian Dollar with the “dot” mintmark is one of the rarest coins in Canadian history. Due to changes in the royal succession, the design had to be altered last-minute, and a small dot was added next to the year to mark this special edition.
Why It’s Valuable:
The 1936 Dot Dollar is rare because only a small number were made, making it highly collectible. Depending on its condition, this coin can be worth anywhere from $50,000 to over $300,000.
How to Identify It:
Look for a tiny dot next to the year “1936” on the coin. This small detail makes it stand out as one of the most valuable Canadian dollars.
6. The 2011 $1 “Raising the Flag” Coin
The 2011 Raising the Flag Coin commemorates the 75th anniversary of the Canadian National Flag. Although it’s not as old as some other coins, it is valuable because it was produced in limited numbers and has special significance in Canadian history.
Why It’s Valuable:
The 2011 Raising the Flag Coin features an image of the Canadian flag being raised at Parliament Hill. Proof versions of this coin can sell for $50 to $75, and if you find one in excellent condition, it could be worth even more.
How to Identify It:
The design of this coin shows the Canadian flag being raised, and it is marked with the year “2011.” This design makes it easy to spot.
Conclusion
As we’ve seen, Canadian dollar coins can be worth much more than just a dollar! Coins like the 1935 Devil’s Face Dollar and the 1911 Silver Dollar can fetch thousands, even hundreds of thousands of dollars at auctions due to their rarity, design, and historical significance. Whether you’re a collector or just curious about coins, it’s always good to check your change for any valuable pieces of Canadian history. You might just find a small fortune hiding in your pocket!
FAQs
1. What makes certain Canadian dollar coins so valuable?
Certain Canadian dollar coins are valuable due to their rarity, historical significance, unique design errors, or limited production. For example, the 1935 “Devil’s Face” coin became valuable because of a design flaw, while the 1911 Silver Dollar is rare due to its limited mintage as a test coin.
2. How can I tell if I have a rare Canadian dollar coin?
To identify a rare Canadian dollar coin, look for specific design features. For instance, the 1935 Devil’s Face Dollar has a faint “devilish” face near King George V’s portrait, while the 1936 Dot Coin has a tiny dot next to the year. Checking the coin’s year, design, and mintmark is key to recognizing valuable pieces.
3. How much is a 1935 Devil’s Face Canadian Dollar worth today?
The 1935 Devil’s Face Dollar can be worth between $4,000 and $10,000, or even more, depending on its condition. Because this coin was withdrawn quickly from circulation, finding one in good condition can make it quite valuable.
4. Are there any newer Canadian dollar coins that are worth a lot?
Yes! While older coins like the 1911 Silver Dollar are more famous, newer coins like the 2011 Raising the Flag Dollar are valuable as well. The limited production and special commemorative nature of such coins can make them worth $50 to $75, or more in pristine condition.
5. How do I sell or auction a rare Canadian dollar coin?
If you think you have a rare Canadian dollar coin, you can sell it through a reputable coin dealer, auction house, or online marketplaces. It’s important to get the coin appraised first to determine its current market value. For high-value coins, it’s often best to consult with a professional numismatist.