Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A standard circulation Canadian five-cent piece featuring the iconic beaver on the reverse and Susanna Blunt's portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse. This specific coin was minted during a year when Canada hosted the Winter Olympics, though this is the classic design rather than a commemorative issue.
Story
The beaver has graced the Canadian nickel since 1937, chosen as a symbol of the nation's early fur-trade history. By 2010, the Royal Canadian Mint was producing these using multi-ply plated steel to keep costs efficient.
Maker / Origin
The Royal Canadian Mint is world-renowned for its technical innovation, often producing coinage for dozens of other countries. The obverse features Susanna Blunt’s 2003 design, notable for being the first portrait of the Queen on Canadian coins to show her without a crown.
Condition & Value
The coin shows signs of circulation wear, including minor surface scratches and dulling of the original mint luster. These factors keep the value at or near face value. Excellent condition commands a premium.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.