Canada George V Large Cent
Country of Origin: Canada
Year of Issue: 1919
Denomination: One Cent
Composition: Bronze (95% copper, 4% tin, 1% zinc)
Brief Description
A large bronze Canadian penny featuring King George V on the obverse and a maple leaf wreath on the reverse.
Historical Significance
This coin is part of the final series of Canadian 'Large Cents' issued before the country switched to the small-sized cent (similar to the US penny) in 1920.
Estimated Value
$0.50-$2.00 in current heavily corroded condition; $10-$50 in higher uncirculated grades.
Care Instructions
Do not attempt to scrub the green corrosion (verdigris) as it will damage the underlying metal. Store in a dry, PVC-free flip to prevent further oxidation.
Mint Mark
None (Ottawa Mint)
Mintage & Rarity
Common; mintage of approximately 5,835,407.
Weight & Diameter
5.67g, 25.4mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
About Good to Good (Details) - Heavily corroded with significant environmental damage/verdigris.
Obverse (Front)
Crowned bust of King George V facing left, designed by Sir E.B. MacKennal. Legend: GEORGIVS V DEI GRA: REX ET IND: IMP:
Reverse (Back)
The denomination 'ONE CENT CANADA' and the date '1919' centered within a continuous maple leaf wreath; designed by W.H.J. Blakemore.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition is the primary factor. The presence of heavy green corrosion (verdigris) significantly lowers the numismatic value compared to a clean specimen.
Similar Coins
1858-1920 Canadian Large Cents, though earlier Victorian issues have different portraits. Often confused with British pennies which are even larger.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Authentic examples have specific denticle counts and clear, sharp lettering. Weight and diameter should be checked against specifications.
Notable Varieties & Errors
No major die varieties are recognized for the 1919 issue, though some 're-punched' date minor variants exist.
Created At: 2026-06-28T00:58:31.727083