-
Inventory:
3 In Stock
- Product ID: 35731
Checkout
The Canada 1 Cent 1888 KM#7 coin is an important piece of Canadian numismatic history, representing the late 19th century—a time of significant development and transformation within the country. As Canada continued to grow and establish its own identity separate from its colonial roots, the coins minted during this era played a pivotal role in everyday commerce and are now treasured for their historical significance. The 1888 one-cent piece provides a snapshot into the economic and cultural context of the period.
This coin features the familiar effigy of Queen Victoria on the obverse, which was designed by Leonard Charles Wyon. The portrait represents Queen Victoria in her later years, projecting an image of stability and enduring monarchy, qualities highly valued during a time of rapid change and industrialization in Canada. The reverse design is characterized by the iconic depiction of two maple leaves—a symbol that has come to be strongly associated with Canadian identity—neatly framing the central denomination. This design element emphasizes Canada’s natural beauty and its pride in its emerging national identity.
Minted from a durable bronze alloy composed primarily of copper with small amounts of tin and zinc, the 1888 one-cent coin was built to withstand the rigors of widespread use in the Canadian economy. This material choice not only facilitated the coin's circulation but also contributed to its ability to endure over time, allowing these historical pieces to survive well into the present day. Coins from this period often develop a rich patina that enhances their visual appeal and is valued by collectors for its aesthetic and historical significance.
The condition of this particular coin is graded as Very Good (VG), indicating that it has seen considerable use. The wear is evident in the smoothing of finer details, particularly in the higher relief areas of Queen Victoria’s portrait and the intricate veining of the maple leaves on the reverse. Despite this wear, the coin’s major design elements remain intact, enabling collectors to appreciate its historical essence and the craftsmanship of its era. Coins in VG condition like this are especially valued for their authentic representation of the coinage used by Canadians during the late Victorian period.
While the mintage of the 1888 one-cent piece was adequate to meet the needs of commerce at the time, finding examples that have preserved even moderate detail has become increasingly challenging. The scarcity of these coins in VG condition adds to their collectible value, making them desirable pieces for numismatists interested in Canadian and colonial British coinage. Such coins are not only collectibles but also serve as educational pieces that help illuminate Canada’s historical narrative through tangible artifacts.
In conclusion, the Canada 1 Cent 1888 KM#7 VG is more than just an old coin; it is a historical document that offers insights into the Canadian economy, culture, and society of the late 19th century. Its preserved state, despite significant usage, along with its emblematic design and the story it tells, make it an invaluable asset for anyone interested in the evolution of Canadian coinage and the broader historical landscape of the era.