2010 Canada: 25 cents Poppy
BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) Quality — Grade: MS-62
Coin Description
This commemorative 25-cent coin was issued in 2010 by the Royal Canadian Mint in honor of Canadian veterans, marking the 65th anniversary of the end of the Second World War . It is Canada's third colored circulation coin with a poppy theme, following those of 2004 and 2008 . Developed in association with the Royal Canadian Legion, this coin pays tribute to fallen soldiers, surviving veterans, and active troops . With a mintage of 10,978,000 copies for circulation , this highly symbolic coin is now sought after by collectors. The offered specimen, graded MS-62, is in very good condition.
The Obverse (Effigy of Queen Elizabeth II)
The obverse features the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Canadian artist Susanna Blunt . In keeping with coins from this era, the obverse is adorned with the maple leaf 🍁 at the bottom, a distinctive mark used since 2007. The legend "ELIZABETH II D • G • REGINA" surrounds the royal bust. For an MS-62 grade, the 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 (Soldier and Poppies)
The reverse, designed by artist Cosme Saffioti , features a particularly moving design. It depicts a Canadian soldier bowing his head in contemplation, positioned against a stylized maple leaf background. Two red poppies are placed on either side of the soldier, their vibrant colors contrasting with the rest of the coin . The color was applied using a patented process by the Royal Canadian Mint, ensuring full adhesion to the metal. The inscriptions "25 CENTS", "1945-2010", and "CANADA" complete the reverse . For an MS-62 grade, the color of the poppies is well preserved, without significant flaking, and the soldier's details are sharp.
Technical Specifications
Condition: MS-62 (Brilliant Uncirculated / Mint State-62)
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Luster: The original luster is present, covering most of the surface, but may be slightly interrupted or less intense in the most exposed areas.
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Surface: Presence of a few contact marks (dings, fine scratches) visible to the naked eye or with a magnifying glass, primarily on the fields and high points. The coin has not circulated but has undergone very slight handling.
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Color Condition: The colored poppies are well preserved, without significant flaking. The color may show very slight imperfections, which are normal for this type of process.
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Strike: The strike is full, and all design details (soldier, maple leaf, inscriptions) are clearly visible.
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Visual Appeal: An MS-62 grade coin represents an excellent compromise for collectors who wish to acquire this commemorative coin with a powerful message at an accessible price while benefiting from an uncirculated state.