Why is it so difficult to locate a Canadian quarter?
For a few years, Canadian quarters have been an important part of daily buying. However, a few extremely good quarters are extremely uncommon and unusual, making them distinctly widespread by using coin creditors. Sometimes those coins have been made to commemorate a historic occasion; every now and then they’d have a special layout or mistake, and sometimes they have been made in tiny quantities.
A really old quarter could be worth millions of dollars. Let’s tell you about eleven extremely rare Canadian quarters that are still in high demand.
1947 Maple Leaf Quarter
This coin is part of Canadian history that is unique. When Queen Elizabeth II succeeded King George VI, the coins synthesized in 1948 with the date 1947 had a small maple leaf impression delivered to them. Fewer than 10,000 of such quarters had been produced.
Its price these days may be anywhere between $500 and $2,500, relying on its circumstances. This coin represents each Canadian’s identification and its records.
1921: “Prince of Canadian Coins”
The 1921 Canadian quarter coin is at least a treasure for collectors. Only 5.97 lakh copies of it were produced, and after that its design was modified.
If this coin comes in a desirable situation, then its price can be between $1,000 and over $10,000. It could be very unique because of its ancient significance.
1936 Dot Quarter
The 1936 Dot Quarter is among the rarest Canadian coins. It carries a small dot under the date that indicates that this coin was produced during a time of a unique change when the throne was left by King Edward VIII.
There are only 3 such coins in the world. One of them was auctioned for over $100,000 in 2021. This coin is an excellent representation of history and rarity.
1951 Low Mintage Quarter
This 1951 quarter is unique, as only 187,000 copies of it were produced that year, which is very few.
If this coin is in common condition, then its value can be up to $150. But in good condition, i.e., MS-63 grade, its value can be up to $2,000.
1967 Caribou Centennial Quarter
This quarter was launched on the anniversary of Canada’s 100th Independence Year. It is so well-designed by Caribou (a deer-like animal) created by artist Alex Colville.
If this quarter is brand new in proof grade condition, then its price is as much as $500. Its charm and patriotic atmosphere make it a favorite among all.
2006 Coloured Poppy Quarter
In 2006, Canada produced a colored quarter for the first time, with a red poppy—in memory and remembrance of the soldiers who passed away.
While millions were produced, it is hard to find one in mint condition. In MS-65 grade, it can sell for up to $50.
1964 Small Bust Quarter
A few pieces produced in 1964 featured Queen Elizabeth’s image slightly smaller than the remainder of the coin. This was an error that is presently regarded as extremely scarce.
Few of them survive—estimated less than 50. In VF-30 grade, it can sell for more than $5,000.
1973 RCMP Centennial Quarter
This quarter was released to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. It has an image of a horseback police officer.
If this coin is new and in pristine condition (MS-65), its worth is up to $150. This coin represents Canadian tradition and pride.
1992 Constitutional Anniversary Quarter
In 1992, a special quarter was released for Canada’s 125th anniversary, which was designed by a kid.
The coin is not very costly in regular condition, but in proof grade (PR-65) may cost up to $200. The coin represents children’s involvement and history.
2000 Millennium Quarter
In 2000, Canada released a special quarter marking the millennium with a hockey player.
A few coins were printed with both dates—1999 and 2000. Such error coins are worth $500. This coin proves Canada’s passion for hockey and coin collecting.
2010 Vancouver Olympics Quarter
When Vancouver hosted the Winter Olympics in 2010, a quarter was released featuring an image of a snowboarding athlete.
If this coin is in set and new condition, its value can be as high as $100. This is a commemorative and collectible coin produced in memory of an Olympics.
Do you also have a hidden treasure?
If you keep a bottle or box of vintage coins in your home, then surely go through it once—you never know, a rare quarter might be waiting there! At times such coins surface in pocket change that can be quite valuable.
Canadian coins have mysteries galore—you just need to recognize them.
Conclusion: Every coin can be a priceless treasure.
The histories behind these unique Canadian quarters are not merely about their metal, their design or their date—they are tokens of history, heritage and emotion. Some mark a national holiday; others were made in error. What is special about them is that they remind us that ordinary objects can be treasures.
If you have some old coins—perhaps inherited, stuck in an old cupboard, or found in your pocket—take a closer look. One of them could be worth thousands or millions today. Coin collecting is not a hobby for the rich; it’s a way to get in touch with history and find something special.
And the next time you see an old coin, don’t underestimate it—it may be a hidden fortune for you.
FAQs
Why is the 1947 Maple Leaf Quarter considered rare?
It features a tiny maple leaf marking a monarch transition, with fewer than 10,000 made, making it highly collectible.
What makes the 1921 quarter the “Prince of Canadian Coins”?
Its low mintage and transitional design make it one of Canada’s most desirable and valuable historical quarters among collectors.
How rare is the 1936 Dot Quarter?
Only three are known to exist; it’s one of the rarest and most valuable coins in Canadian numismatic history.
