• Small Cents (1920–2012) Coins

Greysheet & Red Book® PRICE GUIDE

coin-icon-tr
Filter
Year
Series

Sort by

Sponsor

shop

Sponsor

shop Stacks Bowers Auctions

Sponsor

shop US Coins and Jewelry

Sponsor

shop

Sponsor

shop eBay

The Small Cents (1920–2012) series of Canada in the World Coins contains 1 distinct entries. Canada Small Cents for Collectors Canada has a long history of producing small cents, which makes them popular among collectors. The small cents were first introduced in 1920, replacing the larger penny.

The Small Cents (1920–2012) series of Canada in the World Coins contains 1 distinct entries.

Canada Small Cents for Collectors

Canada has a long history of producing small cents, which makes them popular among collectors. The small cents were first introduced in 1920, replacing the larger penny. Since then, there have been many changes to the design and composition of the small cents, which makes collecting them an exciting and rewarding hobby.

Design Changes

The design of the small cents has changed several times over the years. From 1920 to 1936, the small cents featured a wreath on the reverse side. From 1937 to 1952, the design featured a maple leaf. In 1953, the design was changed to feature a young Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse side, which is still used today. The reverse design has also changed several times since then, featuring different images of the maple leaf or other Canadian symbols.

Composition Changes

The composition of the small cents has also changed over time. From 1920 to 1942, the small cents were made of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc. From 1942 to 1952, the small cents were made of 98% copper and 2% zinc, due to a shortage of tin during World War II. From 1953 to 1996, the small cents were made of 98% copper and 2% nickel. In 1997, the composition was changed to 94% steel, 1.5% nickel, and 4.5% copper, which is still used today.

Collecting Small Cents

Collecting small cents can be a fun and rewarding hobby. There are many different ways to collect them, such as by year, by design, or by composition. Some collectors may choose to collect a complete set of small cents, while others may focus on specific years or designs. The value of small cents can vary depending on their rarity and condition, so it is important to do research before purchasing or selling them.

In conclusion, Canada small cents are a popular item for collectors due to their long history and ever-changing designs and compositions. Collecting them can be a fun and rewarding hobby, and there are many different ways to approach it.

See More See Less

Available on Greysheet Marketplace

View All
1953 1c No Strap MS RD

Auction Ends: 4/19/2026

1937 S$1 MS

Auction Ends: 4/19/2026

1890-H 1c MS RD

Auction Ends: 4/19/2026

Dealer Directory

View All Dealers
Cabrella
FEATURED

Greysheet News

View All News
United Arab Emirates. New Silver Proof and Colour Coins Feature National Children's Day.
United Arab Emirates. New Silver Proof and Colour Coins Feature National Children's Day.
3/25/2026

The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates release silver collector coins highlighting Children's Day.

Romania. New Reproduction Collector Series Launches With Historic 1880 Silver Coin.
Romania. New Reproduction Collector Series Launches With Historic 1880 Silver Coin.
3/24/2026

The National Bank of Romania launch The Coins of Romania series focusing on historic numismatic classics.

Paraguay. Latest Silver Proof Coins Released on Behalf of Inter-American Development Bank Summit
Paraguay. Latest Silver Proof Coins Released on Behalf of Inter-American Development Bank Summit
3/23/2026

The Banco Central del Paraguay release new collector coins marking an important regional conference.

Map icon

Mustang Town Center

Map icon

Rothchild Catering & Conference Center