1969 Canada: 25 Cents Caribou (Nickel)
Quality BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) — Grade: MS-62
Coin Description
This 1969 25-cent coin belongs to the generation of 25-cent coins made of pure nickel (99.9%), a composition used from 1968 to 1999 before the transition to plated steel in 2000. With a mintage of 133,037,929 copies, this coin is relatively common in circulated condition but becomes harder to find in high preserved quality like this one.
The offered specimen, graded MS-62, provides a very good state of preservation for a coin of this era, with its original mint luster still largely present.
The Obverse (Effigy of Queen Elizabeth II)
The obverse features the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by British artist Arnold Machin. This effigy, known as the "young bust," shows the Queen wearing a crown and was used on Canadian coins from 1965 to 1989. The legend "ELIZABETH II D • G • REGINA" surrounds the royal bust, along with the date "1969." For an MS-62 grade, the original mint luster is present, covering most of the surface, but may be slightly interrupted in some areas, with a few minor contact marks visible to the naked eye on the high points of the relief.
The Reverse (Caribou)
The reverse features the classic caribou design, created by Emanuel Hahn and used since 1937. The animal's head, an iconic symbol of Canadian coinage, is surrounded by the inscription "CANADA," the denomination "25 CENTS," and the year "1969." The engraver's initial "H" is found at the bottom of the design. In MS-62, the details of the antlers and fur are sharp, despite very slight handling marks on the periphery.
Technical Specifications
Condition: MS-62
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Luster: Original mint luster is present, covering most of the surface.
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Surface: Presence of some contact marks (dings, fine scratches) visible to the naked eye or under magnification, mainly on the fields and high points. The coin has not circulated but has undergone very slight handling.
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Strike: The strike is complete, and all design details are clearly visible.
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Eye Appeal: An MS-62 graded coin represents excellent value for money for the collector who wishes to acquire a copy of this vintage pure nickel coin at an affordable price while benefiting from an uncirculated condition.
