1970 Canada 50 Cents (Half Dollar) Coin
Royal Canadian Mint · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins & Paper Money
Era / Decade
1970s (Dated 1970)
Material
Nickel (100% pure nickel). Unlike pre-1968 Canadian coins, this does not contain silver.
Condition
Circulated (Good to Very Good). The coin shows visible wear on the high points of the Coat of Arms and some surface scratches. The denticles (rim beads) appear intact.
Demand Level
Low. Because it contains no precious metals (silver) and is not a key date or high-grade specimen, it is mostly a filler for beginners' albums.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$0.75 - $2.50 USD (Individual circulated 1970 issues are common and hold very little premium over face value)
Estimated Retail Value
$0.50 - $1.00 (Face value is 0.50 CAD)
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay 'Sold' listings show individual circulated 1970 50-cent coins selling for $1.00 to $3.00 including shipping. Rolls or bulk lots generally sell for closer to face value.
Description
A 1970 Canadian 50-cent piece featuring the Canadian Coat of Arms on the reverse and Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse. This is a business strike coin intended for circulation. Diameter is 27.13 mm and weight is approximately 8.1 grams.
Key Features
Features the detailed Royal Arms of Canada; Nickel composition gives it magnetic properties; Low mintage year compared to modern times but extremely common in the secondary market.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. The stamping of the text 'CANADA 1970 50 CENTS' and the intricate details of the lion and unicorn in the crest are consistent with Royal Canadian Mint production. Authentic 1970 nickel issues are magnetic.
Flaws to Note
Significant circulation wear; minor surface oxidation/toning; lack of 'mint luster' which is required for higher numismatic value.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (as part of a lot), Coin forums (Numista), or local coin shops. It is not worth selling individually on major platforms due to shipping costs.
Selling Tips
To maximize profit, bundle this with other Canadian coins or half dollars from different years. Use 'Free Shipping' in a standard letter envelope to keep costs down, though there is no tracking. Keywords: Vintage Canada Coin, Coat of Arms, Canadian Half Dollar, 1970 Nickel Coin.