1917 Canadian Large Cent Value Guide

The 1917 Canadian Large Cent is a significant piece of numismatic history, representing the final years of the oversized bronze penny before the transition to small cents in 1920. Featuring the detailed effigy of King George V, this coin is a favorite for collectors documenting the evolution of the British monarchy's influence on Canadian currency.

What Is 1917 Canadian Large Cent Worth?

The typical price range for 1917 Canadian Large Cent is $5 - $5 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Surface preservation is key, as coins with original mint luster or 'Red' (RD) designations command higher prices than brown circulated examples.
• The presence of scratches, corrosion, or 'verdigris' on the bronze surface significantly reduces the market value below the $5 average.
• Strike quality and detail on the King's crown and the veins of the maple leaves on the reverse determine the technical grade.
• Market demand for complete date sets of Canadian Large Cents keeps the 1917 issue liquid, though it is a common date.

How to Identify 1917 Canadian Large Cent?

• Verify the obverse features the crowned bust of King George V facing left, inscribed with 'GEORGIVS V DEI GRA: REX ET IND: IMP:'.
• Check the reverse for the 'ONE CENT' denomination and '1917' date centered within a continuous maple leaf wreath.
• Confirm the physical specifications: a diameter of approximately 25.4 mm and a composition of 95% copper, 4% tin, and 1% zinc.
• Look for the 'C' mint mark above the date if checking for Ottawa Mint production, though most 1917 cents were struck there without a mark.

History of 1917 Canadian Large Cent

The Canadian large cent, minted from 1858 to 1920, was a significant part of Canadian currency, reflecting the country's growing economy and its ties to the British monarchy. The obverse typically features the reigning monarch, in this case, King George V, while the reverse displays the denomination and year, often surrounded by a wreath of maple leaves. These coins circulated widely and are now popular among collectors, particularly those interested in Canadian numismatics and the history of the British Empire.