Canadian Dime Value: Complete 10 Cents Price Guide (1858–Present)
Canadian dime values across all years, monarchs, and compositions. Find silver melt values, key dates (1889, 1936 Dot, 1913 Broad Leaves, 1969 Large Date), verified auction records, and year-by-year prices. Updated March 2026.
Most Canadian dimes dated 1969 or later are worth face value (10¢); pre-1969 silver dimes carry melt value based on their silver content, and key dates can be worth thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
- Does it have silver? Any dime dated 1858–1919 (.925 Ag, ASW 0.0691 oz t), 1920–1966 (.800 Ag, ASW 0.0600 oz t), or a silver 1967–1968 issue (.500 Ag, ASW 0.0375 oz t) contains silver. Melt = ASW × CAD spot per oz. See composition section for the three-tier identification test.
- 1858–1919 sterling silver: Minimum silver melt value; key Victorian dates (1884, 1887, 1889, 1893 Round-top 3) add significant numismatic premiums
- 1920–1968 silver issues: Silver melt value applies; 1936 Dot is an ultra-rarity worth $120,000–$350,000+; 1948 is the Bluenose series key date
- 1969–present base metal: Face value for common dates; exceptions include the 1969 Large Date (~$10,000–$35,000) and the 2000P (~$1,500–$3,000)
- All-time verified record:1936 Dot 10¢ graded SP-68 by PCGS, approximately $192,000 CAD at Heritage Auctions, January 2010 (Lot 31192)
All values in CAD. Identify silver vs. base metal → | Identify your portrait → | See key dates by series → | See top auction records →
Canada's ten-cent coin spans two design series across 168 years of continuous production from 1858 to present: the Early Wreath/Crown series (1858–1936) and the Bluenose Schooner series (1937–present). The denomination has passed through ten distinct portrait eras and three major composition periods, culminating in a unique 1967–1968 triple-alloy transition that no other Canadian denomination shares. The all-time auction record — approximately $192,000 CAD for a 1936 Dot 10 cents graded SP-68 at Heritage Auctions in January 2010 — makes the Canadian dime home to one of the most celebrated ultra-rarities in North American numismatics. Value is driven by silver content for all pre-1969 issues, by key date scarcity concentrated in the 1880s–1890s Victorian cluster, by composition-transition varieties in 1967–1968, and by condition premiums for gem examples. The dime remains actively circulating and currently features the Charles III portrait first struck in December 2023. Error coins exist for this denomination but are outside the scope of this guide.
Canadian Dime Composition & Melt Value by Era
Identifying composition is the critical first step when evaluating any pre-1969 Canadian dime, and is especially important for 1967–1968 dates, which exist in up to three distinct alloys. Use the tables below to determine what you have and whether it contains silver.
Composition Timeline
| Period | Alloy | Fineness | Weight (g) | Diameter (mm) | ASW (oz t) | Melt Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1858–1919 | Sterling silver | .925 | 2.324 | 18.03 | 0.0691 | 0.0691 × CAD spot/oz |
| 1920–1966 | Silver | .800 | 2.333 | 18.03 | 0.0600 | 0.0600 × CAD spot/oz |
| 1967 (.800 Ag) | Silver | .800 | 2.333 | 18.03 | 0.0600 | 0.0600 × CAD spot/oz |
| 1967 (.500 Ag) | Silver | .500 | 2.333 | 18.03 | 0.0375 | 0.0375 × CAD spot/oz |
| 1968 (.500 Ag) | Silver | .500 | 2.333 | 18.03 | 0.0375 | 0.0375 × CAD spot/oz |
| 1968 (nickel) | Pure nickel | — | 2.07 | 18.03 | 0 | No silver content |
| 1969–1999 | Pure nickel (99.9% Ni) | — | 2.07 | 18.03 | 0 | No silver content |
| 2000–present | Nickel-plated steel (92% steel, 5.5% Cu, 2.5% Ni) | — | 1.75 | 18.03 | 0 | No silver content |
To calculate the current melt value of a silver dime, multiply the ASW by the live silver spot price in CAD per troy ounce. Use Kitco for the current silver spot price.
Three-Tier Magnet Test
A single strong magnet sorts a jar of Canadian dimes into three groups in seconds.
| Era | Composition | Magnet Response | Diagnostic Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1858–1968 silver issues | Sterling or .800/.500 silver | Not magnetic | Confirms silver content; separates silver 1968s from nickel 1968s |
| 1969–1999 | Pure nickel (99.9% Ni) | Weakly attracted to strong magnet only | Distinguishes post-silver nickel dimes from 2000+ steel dimes |
| 2000–present | Nickel-plated steel | Strongly magnetic — snaps to any magnet | Identifies modern steel-core dimes immediately |
💡 1967–1968 Identification Tips
1967 split (.800 vs. .500): Both versions of the 1967 Centennial mackerel dime weigh approximately 2.33 g and appear identical. Only XRF analysis or precise specific-gravity testing provides a definitive answer. For value purposes, treat unverified 1967 dimes as carrying the .500 ASW minimum (0.0375 oz t).
1968 split (silver vs. nickel): This split is practical to resolve at home. A 1968 silver dime weighs approximately 2.33 g; a 1968 nickel dime weighs approximately 2.07 g — a 0.26 g gap detectable on a precision scale. Edge colour is also diagnostic: silver shows a bright white edge; nickel shows uniform grey. The magnet test is definitive: silver is non-magnetic; nickel is weakly attracted to a strong magnet. The two nickel 1968 types (Ottawa vs. Philadelphia mint) can be distinguished by reeding style — Ottawa has V-shaped reeding; Philadelphia has square, flat-bottomed reeding.
Three-tier magnet test for Canadian dimes: pre-1969 silver (not magnetic), 1969–1999 nickel (weakly magnetic), 2000+ steel (strongly magnetic). (Illustration — not a photo of your exact coin)
Canadian Dime Monarch & Portrait Identification Guide
Ten portrait eras span the Canadian dime's history, each tied to a specific composition period. The table below enables rapid identification of any Canadian dime. Consult the Coins and Canada pricing pages for per-date values once you have identified your era.
Canadian dime obverse portraits across ten eras: Victoria through Charles III, showing the progression of royal effigies on the 10-cent coin.
| Monarch / Portrait | Years on Coins | Effigy Designer | How to Identify | Composition Era | Value Signal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Victoria | 1858–1901 | Multiple obverse die varieties (OT1–OT6); young laureate bust throughout | Left-facing young bust with laurel wreath; check reverse leaf count (21 leaves to ~1885, 22 leaves after) | .925 sterling (0.0691 oz t ASW) | All carry silver value; key dates 1875-H, 1884, 1887, 1889, 1893 Round-top 3 command major premiums; 1880s–1890s are the core value cluster |
| Edward VII | 1902–1910 | G.W. DeSaulles; single portrait throughout | Only right-facing crowned bust in the pre-Elizabeth era; legend reads EDWARDVS VII | .925 sterling (0.0691 oz t ASW) | Silver melt value base; 1909 Broad Leaves variety is the standout collectible |
| George V | 1911–1936 | Sir E.B. MacKennal; single portrait throughout | Left-facing crowned bust; 1911 lacks "D.G." in legend ("Godless"); check for raised dot below wreath ribbon on 1936 Dot | .925 sterling (1911–1919); .800 silver (1920–1936) | 1936 Dot is an ultra-rarity ($120,000–$350,000+); 1913 Broad Leaves is an extreme condition rarity; 1915, 1934, 1935 are semi-keys |
| George VI (ET IND IMP) | 1937–1947 | T.H. Paget; uncrowned left-facing bust | Uncrowned left-facing bust; reverse legend includes Emperor of India title; 1947 Maple Leaf has a small leaf after the date | .800 silver throughout (0.0600 oz t ASW) | All carry silver value; 1937 first-year has low mintage (2.5M); 1947 Maple Leaf is a sought-after transitional variety |
| George VI (DEI GRATIA) | 1948–1952 | T.H. Paget; same portrait; legend changed after Indian independence | Same uncrowned bust but legend reads DEI GRATIA REX without "ET IND:IMP:" | .800 silver throughout (0.0600 oz t ASW) | 1948 is the key Bluenose date (mintage 422,741 — lowest in the series); all have silver value |
| Elizabeth II — Gillick | 1953–1964 | Mary Gillick; laureate young head | Young left-facing bust with laurel wreath; 1953 has No Shoulder Fold (NSF) and Shoulder Fold (SF) varieties; NSF has flared serif on "I" in DEI | .800 silver throughout (0.0600 oz t ASW) | All have silver value; 1953 NSF is the collectible variety ($1,500+ at MS-65); Proof-Like sets begin 1953 |
| Elizabeth II — Machin | 1965–1989 | Arnold Machin; mature bust with tiara; smaller portrait from 1979 (modified by Walter Ott) | Right-facing bust with Queen Mary's tiara; larger portrait (1965–78) vs. smaller portrait (1979–89) | .800 silver (1965–66); transition alloys (1967–68); pure nickel (1969–89) | 1965–66 have silver content; 1967–68 require composition testing; 1969 Large Date is a modern rarity (~20 known, $10,000–$35,000); most 1969–89 are face value |
| Elizabeth II — de Pédery-Hunt | 1990–2003 | Dora de Pédery-Hunt; mature bust with Diamond Diadem; first Canadian-designed effigy | Right-facing bust with diadem crown; "P" mint mark below bust from 1999 | Pure nickel (1990–99); nickel-plated steel (2000+) | No precious metal; 1999P (~20,000 minted) and 2000P (~250 minted, $1,500–$3,000) are modern key rarities |
| Elizabeth II — Blunt | 2003–2022 | Susanna Blunt; mature uncrowned bust; 2003 exists with both de Pédery-Hunt and Blunt obverses | Right-facing uncrowned bust; most informal royal portrait on the dime; "P" mark (2003–06), then RCM logo (2006+) | Nickel-plated steel throughout | Virtually all face value; 2003W Winnipeg mint mark is a minor collectible; no precious metal |
| Charles III | 2023–present | Steven Rosati; left-facing bust in suit and tie, no crown; third Canadian-designed effigy | Only left-facing male bust on modern dimes; suit and tie; legend reads CHARLES III D·G·REX | Nickel-plated steel (1.75 g) | 2023 first-year-of-issue carries a small premium; entered circulation Dec. 14, 2023; mintage 43,205,000 |
Note: Monarchs traditionally alternate facing direction. Key portrait transition years (1937, 1953, 2003) sometimes produced two distinct obverse varieties on the same date — see the Key Dates section for detail on the 1953 NSF/SF split and the 2003 dPH/Blunt transition.
Canadian Dime Series Directory
Two reverse design series cover the full span of the Canadian ten-cent coin, from the first 1858 Province of Canada striking through the present day. Use this directory to orient yourself within the denomination's timeline, then navigate to the appropriate key-dates section below.
Side-by-side comparison of the two Canadian dime reverse series: the Early Wreath/Crown design (left, 1858–1936) and the Bluenose schooner by Emanuel Hahn (right, 1937–present).
| Series | Years | Reverse Design | Sub-Eras | Notable Commemorative Overlays |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Early Wreath/Crown 10 Cents | 1858–1936 | Crossed maple boughs surmounted by royal crown; denomination "10 CENTS" and date within wreath; designed by L.C. Wyon; 21 leaves to ~1885, then 22 leaves | Victoria .925 (1858–1901, OT1–OT6 obverse varieties) → Edward VII .925 (1902–1910) → George V .925 (1911–1919) → George V .800 (1920–1936). No coins struck in 1859–1869, 1873, 1876–1879, 1895, 1897, or 1922–1927. | None |
| Bluenose Schooner 10 Cents | 1937–present | Bluenose fishing and racing schooner under sail, designed by Emanuel Hahn from photographs of the actual vessel launched in Lunenburg, N.S., 1921; reverse has appeared on every regular-issue dime since 1937 | George VI .800 silver (1937–52, two obverse legends) → Elizabeth II Gillick .800 (1953–64) → Machin .800/.500/nickel transition (1965–68) → Machin nickel (1969–89) → de Pédery-Hunt nickel/steel (1990–2003) → Blunt steel (2003–22) → Charles III steel (2023+) | 1967 Centennial mackerel (Alex Colville, dual-dated 1867–1967); 1992 125th Confederation; 2001International Year of Volunteers (Stan Witten); 2017 Canada 150 Wings of Peace; 2021 Bluenose Centennial |
ℹ️ 1858 Province of Canada Issue
The 1858 ten-cent coin is technically a Province of Canada issue struck before Confederation, but it is the standard series start per Charlton convention and is collected as part of the Canadian series. Post-Confederation production began in 1870.
⚠️ 1862 Ten Cents
There is no 1862 Dominion or Province of Canada ten-cent coin. The "1862 10 cents" encountered in some references is a New Brunswick provincial issue (KM#8) and falls outside the national Canadian series.
Most Valuable Canadian Dime Coins
The Canadian dime contains some of the most valuable coins in all of Canadian numismatics, led by the legendary 1936 Dot. Values below are organized into two tiers to maintain data integrity.
Tier A — Verified Realized Auction Records
These are confirmed auction sales with identified house, date, and lot number where available.
The 1936 Dot 10 cents — Canada's most valuable dime. Approximately five examples are known, with two or three in private hands. The dot appears as a raised point below the wreath ribbon bow on the reverse.
| Rank | Coin | Grade | Realized (CAD) | Auction House | Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1936 Dot 10¢ | SP-68 | ~$192,000 (US$184,000) | Heritage Auctions | January 2010, Lot 31192 | All-time record for any Canadian dime; ~4–6 known total (2–3 museum, 2–3 private); Charlton classifies as specimen/pattern, NOT a circulation issue; struck in early 1937 using 1936 George V dies with raised dot below wreath ribbon |
| 2 | 1936 Dot 10¢ | SP-63 | ~US$115,000 (2006) | Heritage Auctions | 2006; re-offered 2019 at ~$88,000 CAD | Same ultra-rarity at lower certified grade; separate coin from the SP-68 |
| 3 | 1889 10¢ | MS-66 | $88,840 | Heritage Auctions (Canadiana Collection Sale 3008) | January 2010 | Key date of the entire series; ~10 known in MS condition; actual struck population almost certainly below reported fiscal-year mintage |
| 4 | 1889 10¢ | MS-62 | $25,880 | — | 2021 | Key date; strong premium even below gem grade |
| 5 | 1913 Broad Leaves 10¢ | MS-63 | $14,375 | Cook Collection | August 2019 | Heritage has stated: "only the Specimen 1936 Dot is rarer"; Geoffrey Bell pre-sale estimate (2024): $50,000–$60,000 for a choice example |
| 6 | 1870 Narrow 0 10¢ | SP-66+ | $9,583 | Cook Collection | August 2019 | Specimen rarity; first post-Confederation dime in exceptional specimen finish |
| 7 | 1858 10¢ | MS-65 | $5,676 | Victoria North | July 2024 | First year of issue; Province of Canada; gem condition rarity |
| 8 | 1893 Round-top 3 10¢ | EF-40 | $4,300–$4,440 | Crowe Lake | 2020–2022 (multiple sales) | Fewer than 5 certified examples known; major variety rarity |
| 9 | 1858 First 8/5 10¢ | EF-40 | $3,212 | Crowe Lake | August 2020 | Rare overdate variety; premium rises sharply in AU-MS |
| 10 | 1858 Plain Edge 10¢ | SP-65 | $2,896 | Belzberg Collection | January 2021 | Specimen rarity; plain edge distinguishes it from the reeded circulation issue |
| 11 | 1870 Narrow 0 10¢ | MS-64 | $1,917 | Cook Collection | August 2019 | Early post-Confederation date in high grade |
| 12 | 1913 Small Leaves 10¢ | MS-66 | $1,738 | Belzberg Collection | September 2019 | Common variety; condition rarity in gem MS-66 |
| 13 | 1936 Regular 10¢ | MS-66 | $447 | Cook Collection | August 2019 | Last George V standard issue; common date enters premium territory only at MS-66+ |
ℹ️ About Pricing Tiers
Verified records above are confirmed auction sales. Benchmarks below reflect the document's estimated market values based on Charlton Standard Catalogue figures, dealer pricing, and tracked sale patterns, and should be treated as approximate market benchmarks rather than guaranteed realized prices.
Tier B — Market Benchmarks & Estimates
The 1889 Canadian 10 cents — key date of the entire dime series. Despite a reported mintage of 600,000, only approximately 10 examples are known to survive in Mint State condition.
| Coin | Grade Range | Est. Value (CAD) | Key Driver |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1936 Dot | SP-68 current market | $250,000–$350,000 | Ultra-rarity; market appreciation since 2010 auction record |
| 1913 Broad Leaves | MS-64 | $50,000–$75,000 | Only ~4 MS examples certified by PCGS; Geoffrey Bell 2024 pre-sale estimate |
| 1893 Round-top 3 | MS-60+ | $30,000–$50,000 | Fewer than 5 certified; major variety rarity within 500,000 total 1893 mintage |
| 1969 Large Date | MS-62 | $25,000–$35,000 | Only ~15–20 known; sole surviving MS example; old-style large ship/large date die used briefly |
| 1889 | MS-63 | $20,000–$30,000 | Key date; ~10 known in MS |
| 1875-H | MS-60+ | $20,000–$35,000 | Very scarce early Heaton date; far fewer 1875-dated coins survive than 1874-dated |
| 1884 | MS-63 | $15,000–$25,000 | Lowest standalone Victorian mintage (150,000) |
| 1969 Large Date | VF-20 to EF-40 | $10,000–$18,000 | Even circulated examples of this modern rarity command strong premiums |
| 2000P | MS-65+ | $1,500–$3,000 | Test coins for vending industry; not officially released; fewer than 250 minted |
| 1999P | MS-65+ | $1,500–$2,500 | First "P" plated dime; limited mintage ~20,000 |
| 1953 NSF | MS-65 | $1,500–$2,500 | No Shoulder Fold variety in gem condition |
| 1887 | MS-60+ | $8,000–$15,000 | Low-mintage Victorian date (350,000); very scarce in uncirculated |
| 1884 | EF-40 | $5,000–$8,000 | Low mintage; $175+ even at VG-8 |
⚠️ Charlton vs. Auction Discrepancies
The 1913 Broad Leaves consistently exceeds Charlton estimates at auction — Geoffrey Bell's 2024 pre-sale estimate of $50,000–$60,000 signals a market well above catalogue. The 1889 in MS-66 at $88,840 far exceeds what its reported mintage of 600,000 would suggest; the actual number of coins struck with 1889 dies was almost certainly far smaller than the fiscal-year production figure. The 1969 Large Date is difficult to price from Charlton alone because so few have traded; collector estimates of $15,000–$30,000 for upper grades are best treated as approximations.
Canadian Dime Key Dates & Value Drivers by Series
Early Wreath/Crown 10 Cents Key Dates (1858–1936)
This series contains every major rarity in the Canadian dime denomination. Sterling silver (.925) ran from 1858 to 1919; the fineness dropped to .800 silver in 1920 with a slight weight adjustment. Victorian dates from the 1880s and 1890s dominate the value hierarchy, anchored by the 1889 — the key date of the entire 10-cent series. Full pricing available on Coins and Canada (Victorian 10¢) and the Edward VII & George V pages.
| Date / Variety | Mintage | VF-20 (CAD) | MS-63 (CAD) | Key Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1858 (regular) | 1,250,000 | $110 | $2,000–$3,000 | First year; Province of Canada; MS-65 realized $5,676 (Victoria North, Jul 2024) |
| 1858 First 8/5 overdate | Incl. in 1,250,000 | $800–$1,200 | $5,000–$10,000 | Rare overdate variety; EF-40 realized $3,212 (Crowe Lake, Aug 2020) |
| 1870 Narrow 0 | 1,600,000 | $50 | $800–$1,200 | First post-Confederation date; Narrow 0 Specimen SP-66+ realized $9,583 (Cook, 2019); MS-64 realized $1,917 (Cook, 2019) |
| 1871 | 800,000 | $75 | $1,500–$2,500 | Early Confederation; no mint mark (Royal Mint, London) |
| 1875-H | Incl. in 1,600,000 | $1,500–$2,500 | $12,000–$25,000 | Very scarce early Heaton date; far fewer 1875-dated than 1874-dated coins survive; scarce in all grades above AG |
| 1883-H | 300,000 | $75 | $800–$1,500 | Low mintage; underappreciated semi-key |
| 1884 | 150,000 | $550 | $8,500–$15,000 | Lowest standalone Victorian mintage; scarce in all grades; $175+ at VG-8 |
| 1885 | 400,000 | $325 | $4,000–$8,000 | Semi-key; scarce above EF |
| 1886 (four date varieties) | 800,000 | $60 | $800–$1,200 | Large Knobbly 6, Large Pointed 6, Small 6, and Large 6/Small 6 overdate recognized; overdate variety $3,000+ in MS |
| 1887 | 350,000 | $350 | $4,000–$8,000 | Key date; low mintage; very scarce above VF |
| 1889 | 600,000 (reported) | $3,000–$5,000 | $20,000–$30,000 | Key date of the entire series; ~10 known in MS; actual struck population almost certainly far below reported fiscal-year figure; MS-66 record: $88,840 CAD (Heritage, Jan 2010); MS-62: $25,880 (2021); $700–$1,000 at VG-8 |
| 1890-H | 450,000 | $90 | $800–$1,500 | Scarce; close to 1889 in collectability |
| 1891 21-Leaves | Incl. in 800,000 | $50–$80 | $1,000–$2,500 | Scarcer leaf variety of two 1891 types; 21-Leaves commands 50%+ premium over 22-Leaves |
| 1892/1 Overdate | Incl. in 520,000 | $100–$200 | $5,000–$10,000 | Rare overdate variety |
| 1893 Flat-top 3 | Incl. in 500,000 | $65 | $600–$1,000 | Standard variety for the date |
| 1893 Round-top 3 | Incl. in 500,000 | $4,000–$6,000 | $30,000–$50,000 | Fewer than 5 certified; major variety rarity; EF-40 examples realized $4,300–$4,440 (Crowe Lake, 2020–22) |
| 1909 Broad Leaves | Incl. in 1,697,200 | $80–$120 | $800–$1,500 | Edward VII standout; scarcer than Victorian Leaves type |
| 1911 "Godless" | 2,737,584 | $16 | $300–$500 | First George V; legend omits DEI GRATIA; public outcry led to corrected 1912 dies |
| 1913 Broad Leaves | Incl. in 3,613,937 | $200+ | $14,000–$75,000 | Extreme condition rarity — only ~4 MS examples certified; Small Leaves is common; Cook Collection: $14,375 (MS-63, Aug 2019); Geoffrey Bell 2024 pre-sale est. $50,000–$60,000 |
| 1915 | 688,100 | $30 | $650–$1,000 | Key George V sterling date |
| 1921 | 2,469,562 | $10 | $660–$900 | MS-65+ is scarce; no documented mass melting for this denomination (see note below) |
| 1934 | 409,067 | $30 | $1,600–$2,500 | Low George V mintage; scarce in uncirculated |
| 1935 | 384,056 | $30 | $1,000–$1,500 | Second-lowest George V regular mintage |
| 1936 Regular | 2,460,871 | $10 | $64–$200 | Last George V standard issue; common date; MS-66 realized $447 (Cook, Aug 2019) |
| 1936 Dot | ~5 surviving | N/A (specimen/pattern) | $120,000–$350,000 (SP-63 to SP-68) | Ultra-rarity; specimen/pattern per Charlton — NOT a circulation issue; dot below wreath ribbon bow; struck in early 1937 using 1936 dies; all-time record: US$184,000 (~$192,000 CAD, Heritage, Jan 2010); 1936 Dot also exists for 1¢ and 25¢ — the 25¢ was circulated (~153,000), but the 10¢ and 1¢ were not |
⚠️ The 1921 Mass-Melting Question
The famous 1921 silver melting is confirmed for the 5 cents (most of ~2.58 million melted when the denomination switched from silver to nickel — approximately 100–400 survive) and the 50 cents (approximately 200,000 melted in 1929 — approximately 50–100 survive). For the 10 cents, there is no documented evidence of mass melting. The 10-cent denomination was not changed in base metal in 1921; it simply shifted from .925 to .800 silver in 1920 and production continued normally. The 1921 dime is not rare, trades at modest premiums in circulated grades, and is scarce only in high uncirculated condition — a trait shared by many early .800 silver dates. Collectors should not assume the legendary 5-cent and 50-cent melting story applies here.
Common dates summary (Early series): Most Victorian dates from the 1870s–1900s with mintages above 700,000 trade at $20–$50 in VF-20 and $400–$800 in MS-63. Edward VII dates (1902–1910) outside the 1909 Broad Leaves generally trade at $15–$30 in VF-20 and $200–$400 in MS-63. George V dates from 1916–1920 and 1928–1931 are the most affordable silver dimes, often near melt in VF and $80–$270 in MS-63.
Close-up comparison of 1913 Broad Leaves (left) vs. 1913 Small Leaves (right) on the Canadian 10-cent reverse. The Broad Leaves variety shows wider, more pronounced leaf venation; only approximately four Mint State examples are certified. (Illustration — not a photo of your exact coin)
Bluenose Schooner 10 Cents Key Dates (1937–Present)
The Bluenose reverse by Emanuel Hahn debuted in 1937 and has appeared on every regular-issue Canadian dime since — interrupted only by commemorative overlays. For collectors, the dominant question is "Is my dime silver?" followed by "Is it a key date?" All dimes dated 1937–1966 contain .800 silver. The 1967–1968 transition is the critical identification point covered in the Composition section. Full pricing available on Coins and Canada (George VI 10¢) and Elizabeth II 10¢.
| Date / Variety | Mintage | Circ. Value (CAD) | MS-63 (CAD) | Key Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1937 | 2,500,095 | Silver melt (BV) | $15–$25 | First Bluenose year; George VI Specimen coins are rare ($400–$600) |
| 1938 | 4,197,323 | $5 | $60–$100 | Scarce in high grade; re-engraved date variety adds $5–$140 premium |
| 1947 Maple Leaf | 9,638,793 | Silver melt (BV) | $15–$20 | Struck in 1948 with 1947 dies + small maple leaf after date; transitional variety marking removal of Emperor of India title; popular type coin |
| 1948 | 422,741 | $10 | $60–$90 | Lowest mintage in the Bluenose series; DEI GRATIA obverse; undervalued relative to rarity; potential sleeper in MS-65 |
| 1953 NSF | Incl. in 17,706,395 | Silver melt (BV) | $15–$35 | No Shoulder Fold variety; $1,500+ at MS-65; Proof-Like sets available from 1953 onward per RCM |
| 1953 SF | Incl. in 17,706,395 | Silver melt (BV) | $8–$20 | Shoulder Fold (standard corrected obverse); more common variety |
| 1967 (.800 Ag) | 32,309,135 | Silver melt | $3.50–$10 | Centennial mackerel by Alex Colville; dual-dated 1867–1967; indistinguishable from .500 version without XRF or specific-gravity testing |
| 1967 (.500 Ag) | 62,988,219 | Silver melt | $2.50–$8 | Same Colville mackerel; .500 silver version; identical appearance to .800 version |
| 1968 (.500 Ag, Ottawa) | 70,460,000 | Silver melt | $2–$5 | Bluenose returns; .500 silver struck at Ottawa; weight ~2.33 g; non-magnetic; white edge |
| 1968 Nickel (Ottawa) | 87,412,930 | Face value | $0.50–$2 | First base-metal Bluenose; weight 2.07 g; weakly magnetic; V-shaped reeding on edge |
| 1968 Nickel (Philadelphia) | 85,170,000 | Face value | $0.50–$2 | Struck at Philadelphia Mint due to RCM capacity constraints; no mint mark; square/flat-bottomed reeding distinguishes from Ottawa nickel |
| 1969 Large Date | ~20 known | $10,000–$18,000 | $25,000–$35,000 | Modern rarity; old 1968-style large ship/large date die used briefly; only ~15–20 known; 1 graded MS |
| 1969 Small Date | 55,833,929 | Face value | $0.50–$2 | Standard type from 1969 onward; redesigned smaller Bluenose; common |
| 2001 Volunteers | 224,714,000 | Face value | $0.50–$1 | International Year of Volunteers; three marching figures by Stan Witten; bilingual legend; also issued in .925 silver proof (mintage 40,634); MS-65 ~$27 |
| 2023 | 43,205,000 | Face value | $1–$2 | First Charles III dime; Steven Rosati portrait; entered circulation Dec. 14, 2023; small first-year premium |
ℹ️ Proof-Like & Specimen Availability (Bluenose Series)
The Royal Canadian Mint began offering Proof-Like (PL) sets to collectors in 1953. Pre-1953 George VI specimens are very rare and command significant premiums (1937 Specimen: $400–$600). From 1953 onward, PL examples of each date are readily available at modest premiums above business-strike values in most cases. The 1948, however, was produced before the PL program — specimen or PL examples of the 1948 date are extremely rare.
1967–1968 Canadian dime composition identification: weight comparison on a precision scale showing the ~2.33 g silver issue vs. the ~2.07 g nickel issue, alongside the magnet test result for each. (Illustration — not a photo of your exact coin)
1969 Large Date (left) vs. 1969 Small Date (right) on the Canadian 10-cent coin. The Large Date uses the old 1968-style die with larger numerals and a larger schooner image; only approximately 15–20 examples are known to exist. (Illustration — not a photo of your exact coin)
Common dates summary (Bluenose series): Virtually all Bluenose dimes from 1940–1966 (outside of 1948) are worth silver melt in circulated grades and $8–$55 in MS-63 depending on the date. George VI dates (1937–1952) are genuinely underappreciated in high grade — MS-65 specimens of most dates are scarcer than their modest catalogue values suggest. From 1969 onward, standard Bluenose dimes are face value in any circulated grade.
Canadian Dime Value FAQs
What are Canadian dimes worth?
Most Canadian dimes dated 1969 or later are worth face value (10¢) in circulated condition. Dimes dated 1858–1919 contain 0.0691 oz t of sterling silver (.925); dimes dated 1920–1966 contain 0.0600 oz t of .800 silver. Both carry silver melt value that fluctuates with the silver spot price. Key dates in any era command numismatic premiums well above melt, ranging from a few dollars for minor date varieties to hundreds of thousands for the 1936 Dot.
Which Canadian dime is the most valuable?
The most valuable Canadian dime is the 1936 Dot 10 cents, an ultra-rarity with only approximately four to six examples known (two or three in museums, two or three in private hands). The Charlton Standard Catalogue classifies it as a specimen/pattern rather than a circulation issue — it was struck in early 1937 using 1936 George V dies, with a small raised dot placed below the wreath ribbon bow. The SP-68 example realized approximately $192,000 CAD at Heritage Auctions in January 2010, the all-time record for any Canadian dime. Current market estimates for this coin range from $120,000 to $350,000+ depending on grade.
Are Canadian dimes silver?
Canadian dimes struck from 1858 through mid-1968 contain silver. The fineness was .925 from 1858 to 1919, then .800 from 1920 to 1966, and .500 for some 1967 and 1968 issues. Dimes struck in pure nickel from 1969 to 1999, and in nickel-plated steel from 2000 to present, contain no precious metal at all. The 1967 and 1968 dates are the tricky ones — see the composition section for the three-tier identification method.
How do I tell if my Canadian dime is silver?
Use the three-tier magnet test. A silver dime (1858–1968 silver issues) is not magnetic at all. A pure nickel dime (1969–1999) is weakly attracted to a strong magnet. A nickel-plated steel dime (2000+) snaps firmly to any magnet. For the tricky 1968 split between silver and nickel, weigh the coin: a 1968 silver dime weighs approximately 2.33 g; a 1968 nickel dime weighs approximately 2.07 g. Edge colour also helps — silver shows a bright white edge; nickel shows uniform grey.
What year Canadian dimes are worth money?
The years most likely to be worth significant money are: 1889 ($700+ even in Fine); 1884 ($175+ in VG-8); 1887 and 1875-H (scarce in all grades); 1936 Dot (ultra-rarity, $120,000+); 1913 Broad Leaves (extreme condition rarity); 1948 (lowest Bluenose mintage, $10+ in circulated, $60–$90 in MS-63); 1969 Large Date (modern rarity, $10,000+ even in circulated grades); and 2000P ($1,500–$3,000). Any silver dime (1858–1968 silver) carries at minimum its silver melt value.
What is the 1936 Dot dime?
The 1936 Dot is one of the greatest rarities in all of Canadian coinage. After King George V died in January 1936 and preparations for a new George VI obverse were underway, coins were needed in early 1937 but the new dies were not yet ready. The Royal Canadian Mint struck a small number of 1¢, 10¢, and 25¢ coins using the existing 1936 George V dies, adding a tiny raised dot to each denomination to distinguish them. The 1936 Dot 10 cents and 1¢ were struck only as specimens and never released to circulation; the 1936 Dot 25¢ was circulated in a mintage of approximately 153,000. The Charlton Standard Catalogue classifies the 10¢ as a specimen/pattern. Approximately four to six 10-cent examples are believed to survive.
What is the 1969 Large Date dime?
The 1969 Large Date is a modern rarity created when the Royal Canadian Mint briefly used an old 1968-style die — featuring a larger schooner image and larger date numerals — before switching to the redesigned smaller Bluenose die used for all subsequent dimes. Only approximately 15–20 examples are known to exist, making it dramatically rarer than its 1969 date would suggest. Even heavily circulated examples command $10,000–$18,000 CAD; the sole known Mint State example is estimated at $25,000–$35,000.
What is the 1967 dime worth?
The 1967 Centennial dime features a Atlantic mackerel designed by Alex Colville, replacing the Bluenose reverse for that year only, and is dual-dated 1867–1967. Two versions were struck — one in .800 silver (ASW 0.0600 oz t) and one in .500 silver (ASW 0.0375 oz t) — and these are visually indistinguishable without XRF or specific-gravity testing. For value purposes, treat any unverified 1967 dime as carrying the lower .500 silver content (ASW 0.0375 oz t). In Mint State condition, 1967 dimes trade for $2.50–$10 depending on grade. The coin is primarily a silver bullion item rather than a numismatic key date.
What is the 1889 dime worth?
The 1889 10 cents is the key date of the entire Canadian dime series. Despite a reported mintage of 600,000, the actual number of 1889-dated coins is believed to be far lower — probably because the mintage figure reflects a fiscal year rather than calendar year, and coins dated 1889 represent only a fraction of that production. Only approximately 10 examples survive in Mint State condition. Values range from approximately $700–$1,000 in VG-8, $3,000–$5,000 in VF-20, $20,000–$30,000 in MS-63, and the MS-66 auction record is $88,840 CAD (Heritage Auctions, January 2010).
Should I get my Canadian dime graded?
Professional grading (by NGC, PCGS, or ICCS for Canadian coins) makes the most sense when the expected value gain after grading significantly exceeds the grading fee. For common silver dimes worth only melt value, grading costs are unlikely to be recovered. However, grading is strongly worthwhile for any suspected key date (1889, 1936 Dot, 1913 Broad Leaves, 1893 Round-top 3, 1969 Large Date), any coin in apparent Mint State condition, variety attributions, and specimen or Proof-Like examples of scarce dates. For example, the difference between an ungraded 1889 and a PCGS MS-66 certified example can be tens of thousands of dollars.
Methodology & Sources
Values in this guide are sourced primarily from Coins and Canada, the Charlton Standard Catalogue of Canadian Coins, and verified auction records from Heritage Auctions and Geoffrey Bell Auctions. Grading references follow NGC and PCGS standards; ICCS is the primary Canadian grading service. Composition and specification data reflect Royal Canadian Mint specifications. All values are in Canadian Dollars (CAD) as of March 2026. USD auction records are reproduced with the document's stated CAD approximations and are not independently converted. Melt values are not calculated in this guide — use the ASW formulas in the composition section with a live silver spot price from a service such as Kitco. Tier A (verified realized auction records) and Tier B (catalogue/dealer estimates) are kept separate throughout to preserve data integrity.
A note on images: To help illustrate coin diagnostics and rare varieties — especially complex errors that are difficult to describe in text alone — this guide uses AI-generated images. All written values, diagnostics, and variety attributions have been manually reviewed against the cited sources above. While our editorial team works to ensure every image is accurate and helpful, AI-generated illustrations may occasionally misrepresent fine details. If you spot any discrepancy between an image and its written description, please contact us or leave a comment below — we review all feedback and correct errors promptly. Numismatic knowledge is a community effort, and your input helps us build a more accurate resource for everyone.