1923 Canadian George V Nickel (Five Cents)
Royal Canadian Mint · Collectibles & Antiques > Numismatics (Coins & Currency)
Era / Decade
1920s (specifically 1923); this was the second year of the large-diameter nickel format in Canada.
Material
99.9% Nickel; these early Canadian nickels are heavier and more durable than modern alloys.
Condition
Good to Very Good (G-4 to VG-8). The coin shows significant circulation wear; detail on the maple leaf veins and the central '5' is smoothed but legible. Surface shows minor pitting and dark toning, likely from exposure or soil.
Demand Level
Moderate; 1923 is a common date with a mintage of over 8 million, but it is popular among 'year-set' collectors and vintage coin enthusiasts.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$2.00 - $12.00 (Low: Cull/Heavily worn; Mid: Average circulated; High: If it exhibits a specific variety like the 'Thin 3' vs 'Thick 3' or 'Large/Small S'—though this appears standard).
Estimated Retail Value
$4.00 - $8.00 (Current pricing for a common, circulated specimen in this grade).
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sold listings show circulated 1923 nickels selling for $3.50 to $7.00 CAD plus shipping. Higher-grade 'About Uncirculated' examples can reach $40+, but this specimen is moderately circulated.
Description
A 1923 Canadian Five Cent nickel featuring the iconic dual maple leaf reverse design by W.H.J. Blakemore. This 21mm coin was minted during the reign of King George V. The reverse features the 'CANADA FIVE CENTS' lettering with the 1923 date. Natural aged patina with visible circulation wear expected for its century-old age.
Key Features
High nickel purity (magnetic), George V era, over 100 years old, essential 'gap filler' for Canadian coin collectors, distinct large-format design used from 1922-1936.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence; the denticles (rim beads) and font style match Royal Canadian Mint standards for 1923. Weight and magnetic properties of pure nickel are the primary field tests.
Flaws to Note
Significant surface wear, lack of fine detail in the maple leaves, dark oxidation/toning, and possible micro-scratches. Note: Never clean this coin as it destroys numismatic value.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (best for reaching global coin collectors), Etsy (if marketed as jewelry/craft supply), or a local coin shop (bullion/melt value plus a small premium).
Selling Tips
Do not clean the coin. Use a macro lens for photos of both sides (obverse and reverse). Use keywords like 'King George V', 'Vintage Canadian Numismatics', and '1923 Canada Nickel'. Shipping can be done via 'eBay Standard Envelope' for low-cost tracked shipping.