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The Canada 1 cent coin from 1916, cataloged as KM#21, represents an important era in Canadian numismatics, reflecting both the historical and economic context of World War I. This coin was minted during a tumultuous period, with the Great War influencing various aspects of life in Canada, including its currency. The 1916 1 cent coin is a notable example of Canadian coinage, featuring design elements that encapsulate the nation's identity and its ongoing connection to the British Empire during this period.
The 1916 1 cent coin was produced by the Royal Canadian Mint, which had been established in 1908 and was responsible for producing Canada's own coinage, as opposed to relying on the British Royal Mint. This period marked an important transition in Canada's numismatic history, with the Royal Canadian Mint taking on an increasingly central role in the production of Canadian coins. The 1916 1 cent coin reflects the mint’s commitment to quality and design, maintaining high standards despite the challenges posed by the ongoing war.
On the obverse of the 1916 1 cent coin, the portrait of King George V is depicted. This design was introduced in 1911 and was used throughout George V's reign. The king is shown in left-facing profile, wearing a crown and the robes of the Order of the Garter. Surrounding the portrait is the inscription "GEORGIVS V DEI GRA: REX ET IND: IMP:," which translates to "George V, by the Grace of God, King and Emperor of India." This inscription emphasizes George V's imperial role and reflects the continuity of British royal tradition in Canadian coinage. The detailed engraving captures the king's dignified appearance and the high-quality craftsmanship of the period.
The reverse side of the 1916 1 cent coin features a classic Canadian design. The central element is a stylized wreath made up of maple leaves, a symbol of Canadian identity and heritage. Inside the wreath, the denomination "1 CENT" and the year "1916" are prominently displayed. The design is framed by a border of fine beads, which adds a decorative touch and enhances the coin’s overall appearance. The use of the maple leaf motif reflects the importance of national symbols in Canadian coinage, reinforcing a sense of pride and unity during a time of global conflict.
The coin is made from bronze, a material chosen for its durability and affordability. The 1916 1 cent coin has a diameter of 19.05 mm and weighs approximately 3.24 grams. Bronze was a practical choice for low-denomination coins, balancing cost considerations with the need for a durable and long-lasting currency. The choice of material reflects the mint’s efforts to produce a functional and reliable coin for everyday circulation.
The mintage of the 1916 1 cent coin was relatively high compared to other years, reflecting the increased demand for small-denomination coins during this period. The total mintage for the 1916 issue is estimated to be over 23 million coins. This relatively high production number means that the coin is more commonly available than some other years, though its historical significance and design still make it a sought-after item among collectors.
In terms of condition, the 1916 1 cent coin described as Extremely Fine (XF) shows light wear, with most of the original detail still intact. In XF condition, the coin will exhibit only minor signs of handling, with the high points of the design showing some wear but remaining well-defined. The portrait of King George V and the maple leaf wreath will be clearly visible, with minimal flattening of the design elements. The coin’s surface will retain a significant amount of its original luster, contributing to its overall appeal and value among collectors.
The Canada 1 cent 1916 KM#21 coin is a valuable piece of Canadian numismatic history, reflecting both the continuity of traditional design elements and the impact of global events on Canadian currency. Its design, mintage, and condition make it an important artifact for collectors and historians, illustrating the resilience and evolution of Canadian coinage during a period of significant change. The 1916 1 cent coin remains an enduring symbol of Canada’s heritage and its connection to the broader context of World War I.