10 Cent Appraisal

Elizabeth II (Regina) Canadian Coin (likely 10 Cents)

This item is a circular, metallic coin featuring the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, indicating it is likely a Canadian coin from her reign. The coin appears to be made of a silver-colored metal, possibly nickel or a silver alloy, and exhibits significant wear and environmental damage. The obverse side, captured in the image, clearly shows the right-facing profile of Queen Elizabeth II, characteristic of her early effigies on Canadian coinage. Surrounding her portrait are inscriptions, partially visible due to wear and obscuring debris. The letters 'ELIZA' are discernible to the left of the portrait, and 'REGINA' is visible to the right, confirming the ruler depicted. Above the queen's head, fragments of 'GRA' can be seen, likely part of 'DEI GRATIA', a common inscription on Commonwealth coinage. The rim of the coin shows a reeded or milled edge, although this area is also heavily abraded and appears uneven, suggesting damage. There are significant dark, encrusted deposits, possibly dirt, corrosion, or organic matter, particularly concentrated around the upper left quadrant of the queen's head and extending along the top rim. The overall condition is poor, with significant loss of detail on the queen's hair and facial features due to circulation wear and the aforementioned debris. The edges of the coin are irregular and blunted. The coin's overall appearance suggests it has been exposed to harsh conditions, possibly buried or submerged, leading to its current deteriorated state. Despite the damage, the clear depiction of Queen Elizabeth II's effigy and the partial legend 'ELIZABETH II REGINA' allows for identification as a Canadian coin from her era, most probably a 10-cent piece given the size typically associated with such coins.