18 Rare Canadian Coins Like the Green Toonie and Purple Loonie: Canadian coin collectors and everyday change-checkers are always on the lookout for rare and valuable coins that could be hiding in their pockets. Among these, the Green Toonie and Purple Loonie have captured the imagination of collectors, but they are just two of many rare finds. In this guide, we’ll cover 18 rare Canadian coins, how to identify them, and their expected values.
18 Rare Canadian Coins Like the Green Toonie and Purple Loonie
| Coin Name | Denomination | Year | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green Toonie | $2 | 2019 | $5 – $10 |
| Purple Loonie | $1 | 2020 | $3 – $5 |
| Insulin Toonie | $2 | 2021 | $4 – $6 |
| Klondike Gold Rush Loonie | $1 | 2021 | $3 – $5 |
| Elsie MacGill Loonie | $1 | 2023 | $3 – $4 |
| RCAF Toonie | $2 | 2024 | $4 – $7 |
| National Indigenous Peoples Day Toonie | $2 | 2023 | $4 – $6 |
| Oscar Peterson Loonie | $1 | 2022 | $3 – $5 |
| Black Ring Toonie | $2 | 2022 | $5 – $8 |
| D-Day Quarter | $0.25 | 2019 | $2 – $4 |
| Armistice Toonie | $2 | 2018 | $4 – $6 |
| Vimy Ridge Quarter | $0.25 | 2017 | $1.50 – $3 |
| Canada 150 Loonie | $1 | 2017 | $2 – $3 |
| Poppy Quarter | $0.25 | 2004 | $2 – $4 |
| Lucky Loonie | $1 | 2006 | $2 – $4 |
Canadian change is more than just pocket money – it could be a hidden treasure! With special editions like the Green Toonie, Purple Loonie, and Black Ring Toonie, there’s always a chance of finding a valuable piece. By keeping an eye out, checking online guides, and storing your coins properly, you can build a valuable coin collection over time.
1. The Green Toonie (2019)
The Green Toonie, released in 2019, was created to commemorate the 75th anniversary of D-Day. It features a distinctive green outer ring, symbolizing the resilience and bravery of Canadian soldiers. With only three million minted, this coin is relatively rare, making it a collector’s item worth $5 to $10, depending on condition.
18 Rare Canadian Coins Like the Green Toonie and Purple Loonie Spot It:
- Look for a green ring around the core.
- Features a soldier landing at Normandy.
- Marked with “D-Day 1944-2019.”
2. The Purple Loonie (2020)
In 2020, Canada introduced the Purple Loonie to mark the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II. This coin has a distinctive purple ring, a flaming torch, and a Morse code inscription translating to “We win when we work willingly.”
Value:
- Circulated versions: $3
- Uncirculated versions: $5+
3. The Insulin Toonie (2021)
Celebrating the 100th anniversary of insulin’s discovery, this 2021 Toonie features a blue-colored depiction of an insulin monomer. It’s one of Canada’s most visually appealing coins.
Expected Value:
- Ranges from $4 to $6 in uncirculated condition.
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4. The Black Ring Toonie (2022)
Issued in memory of Queen Elizabeth II, this 2022 Toonie features a black outer ring, signifying mourning and respect.
Value:
- Standard condition: $5
- Mint condition: $8
Find Rare Coins in Your Change
- Check Your Coins Regularly – Keep an eye out for colored rings or unique designs.
- Look for Mint Errors – Coins with misprints or doubled features are highly valuable.
- Use a Magnifying Glass – Some inscriptions are tiny and hard to spot.
- Join Online Coin Forums – Websites like the Canadian Coin News Forum offer insights.
FAQs
1. What Makes a Coin Valuable?
Several factors influence a coin’s value:
- Mintage Number: The fewer minted, the rarer it is.
- Condition: Uncirculated coins are worth more.
- Demand: Collector interest increases value.
- Errors: Coins with striking mistakes are highly valuable.
2. Can I Use These Coins for Regular Purchases?
Yes, but it’s better to keep them as their value may increase over time.
3. Where Can I Sell My Rare Coins?
You can sell coins at:
- Online platforms like eBay
- Coin shops or numismatic dealers
- Coin-collecting forums
4. How Can I Protect My Rare Coins?
Store them in:
- Plastic coin holders to avoid scratches.
- Temperature-controlled environments to prevent tarnishing.
