1916 Canadian One Cent Coin Value Guide

The 1916 Canadian One Cent is a significant example of the 'large cent' era, minted during the reign of King George V. These copper coins are highly collectible due to their historical connection to World War I-era Canada and their classic maple leaf motif.

What Is 1916 Canadian One Cent Coin Worth?

The typical price range for 1916 Canadian One Cent Coin is $2 - $10 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Surface preservation, specifically the presence of original red luster versus brown oxidation.
• The amount of wear on the high points of King George V's crown and the veins of the maple leaves.
• Presence of environmental damage such as corrosion, pitting, or heavy scratches which significantly lowers the $2-$10 range.
• Professional grading by services like ICCS or PCGS which can validate higher-end specimens.

How to Identify 1916 Canadian One Cent Coin?

• Verify the obverse features the crowned effigy of King George V facing left.
• Check the reverse for the 'ONE CENT CANADA 1916' text surrounded by a maple leaf wreath.
• Confirm the physical size is a 'large cent' diameter of approximately 25.4 mm, significantly larger than modern pennies.
• Look for the designer's initials 'B.M.' (Bertram Mackennal) on the truncation of the King's shoulder.

History of 1916 Canadian One Cent Coin

The Canadian one-cent coin, commonly known as a penny, was first issued in 1858. The design of the coin changed over the years, often featuring the reigning monarch. The 1916 penny would have featured King George V on the obverse side. These large cents were a staple of Canadian currency for many decades until their eventual discontinuation. They are now considered collectible items, particularly those in good condition or from specific mint years.