1949 – 5 Cents Canada

The 1949 Canadian 5 cents coin, struck by the Royal Canadian Mint, features on its obverse a bust of King George VI with the inscription “GEORGIVS VI DEI GRATIA REX,” designed by Thomas Humphrey Paget. The reverse, designed by G. E. Kruger-Gray, depicts the iconic Canadian beaver sitting on a log with two maple leaves, symbolizing Canada. Made of nickel, the coin weighs 4.54 grams and measures 21.3 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. This coin was part of a series produced between 1937 and 1952 and bears the medal alignment. Its mintage for 1949 was 13,736,276 with both circulation and specimen finishes available. The coin’s design was simplified from previous versions to reflect changes after India’s independence in 1948, hence omitting “Emperor of India” from the inscription. Collectors may find varieties including double legend or doubled elements on the coin, adding to its numismatic interest.