1991 Canadian 1-cent coin standard dodecagonal design - VF-20 (moderate wear, major details clear) to XF-40

This 1991 Canadian 1-cent coin features the standard dodecagonal design with Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse and dual maple leaves on the reverse. The "KG" initials confirm designer G.E. Kruger-Gray, and the high-relief strikes show typical bronze composition (98% copper, 1.5% zinc, 0.5% tin). Based on the images, it grades VF-20 to XF-40 on the Sheldon scale due to moderate wear on high points.

Obverse Description

Queen Elizabeth II faces right at age 64, wearing a diamond crown, necklace, and earrings, with "ELIZABETH II D·G·REGINA" around the edge. The portrait by Dora de Pédery-Hunt appears well-centered with clear lettering and no major damage visible.

Strike quality retains most hair details, though slight flatness exists on the cheek and crown from circulation.

Reverse Description

Two maple leaves stem from a single twig, flanked by "1 CENT" above, "1991" below left, "CANADA" below, and "KG" under the date. Design elements remain sharp, with defined veins and stem, though leaf highs show friction wear.

The 12-sided edge is smooth and intact, matching standard specs of 19.1 mm diameter, 2.5 g weight, and 1.45 mm thickness.

Condition Analysis

Photos reveal even light-to-moderate wear across protected and high areas, with no heavy bagmarks, scratches, or cleaning evident. Luster is diminished but some original cartwheel effect persists in fields; color shows typical bronze toning without corrosion.

No die cracks, chips, doubles, or off-center strikes match known 1991 varieties or errors like die chips on the stem or crown.

Eye appeal is solid for a circulated example, with balanced strike and minimal post-mint issues.

Grading and Value

Grades VF-20 (moderate wear, major details clear) to XF-40 (light wear on highs, intricate details visible) per Sheldon/PCGS standards.

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Varieties and features of 1 cent 1991 coin

• Mintage:
• Circulation: 831,001,000
• Proof: 131,888 (Quantity sold)
• Alloy and composition: 98% copper, 0.5% tin, 1.5% zinc
• Magnetism: Non-magnetic
• Weight: 2.5 g
• Melt value: $0.039917 (Last update : January 18, 2026 )
• Diameter: 19.1 mm
• Thickness: 1.45 mm
• Edge: Plain (smooth)
• Axis (orientation): ↑↑ (medal alignment)
• Minted by: Royal Canadian Mint
• Finish(es) (types):
• Circulation
• Uncirculated
• Specimen
• Proof
• Legend (lettering):
• Obverse: ELIZABETH II D • G • REGINA
• Reverse: 1 CENT 1991 CANADA
• Design(s):
• Obverse: Bust of Queen Elizabeth II wearing a circular diamond crown decorated with roses, shamrocks and thistles.
• Reverse: Two maple leaves on the same twig.
• Designer(s):
• Obverse: Dora de Pédery-Hunt
• Reverse: G. E. Kruger-Gray