Elizabeth II 1 Cent (Maple Leaf)

Country of Origin: Canada

Year of Issue: 1957

Denomination: 1 Cent

Composition: Bronze (98% copper, 0.5% tin, 1.5% zinc)

Elizabeth II 1 Cent (Maple Leaf)

Brief Description

The obverse of the coin features an effigy of Queen Elizabeth II (in the 'Laureate' portrait by Mary Gillick), while the reverse displays two maple leaves, the denomination '1 CENT' above, and 'CANADA' and the year '1957' below. The current image shows the reverse side of the coin.

Historical Significance

This coin is part of the series of Canadian pennies issued during the early reign of Queen Elizabeth II. The maple leaf design has been a consistent symbol of Canada on its coinage. 1957 was a year of transition for Canadian coinage as a new portrait of Queen Elizabeth II was introduced, replacing that of her father, King George VI.

Estimated Value

The estimated value for a 1957 Canadian 1 Cent coin in average circulated condition (like the one pictured) is typically very low, often a few cents to a quarter. For coins in uncirculated condition, the value can range from a few dollars to upwards of $10-$20, depending on grading and specific varieties (e.g., 'no shoulder strap' varieties for earlier years could be more valuable, but for 1957 it's less common to have significant premium for varieties unless it's a high-grade specimen). High-grade examples or those with errors could fetch more.

Care Instructions

To preserve the coin's condition, handle it by the edges to avoid transferring oils and dirt from your skin. Store it in a dry, stable environment, preferably in a non-PVC coin holder or album specific for numismatic purposes. Avoid cleaning the coin, as this can often decrease its numismatic value by damaging the patina or surface details. If cleaning is absolutely necessary for conservation (not for aesthetics), it should be done by a professional numismatist.

Created At: 2025-09-22T15:31:02.554122