1981 – 1 Cent Canada

The Canadian 1 cent coin made in 1981 was minted by the Royal Canadian Mint primarily from copper, with small amounts of tin and zinc, and weighs about 2.8 grams with a 19 mm diameter and a plain edge. Its obverse features the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Arnold Machin, while the reverse displays two maple leaves on a single twig, crafted by G.E. Kruger Gray—a design emblematic of Canadian identity and heritage. Over one billion were made for circulation, and the coin’s composition, design, and widespread mintage reflect both Canada’s connection to the monarchy and pride in its natural beauty.