1945 Canadian 'V for Victory' Nickel

This item is a 1945 Canadian five-cent coin, commonly known as a nickel, featuring the iconic 'V for Victory' design. The coin is circular and appears to be made of a silver-colored metal, likely steel with a chrome or nickel plating given its wartime production, though specific material cannot be confirmed without further examination. The obverse side, visible in the image, prominently displays a large stylized 'V' in the center, symbolizing 'Victory,' a significant motif during World War II. A torch is depicted within the 'V', signifying liberty or enlightenment. Above the 'V' is a crown, indicating its royal association with Canada. The word 'CANADA' is arched above the crown and 'V', while the year '1945' is split, with '19' to the left of the 'V' and '45' to the right. Below the 'V', the denomination '5 CENTS' is inscribed. Two maple leaves, a national emblem of Canada, flank the base of the 'V'. The rim of the coin shows some wear and irregular edges, suggesting it is a circulated coin. There are visible surface scratches and some areas of possible tarnish or discoloration, consistent with its age and use. The overall condition suggests a fair to good circulated state, with details still discernible but lacking original luster. This coin belongs to the wartime coinage period in Canada, where nickel was largely removed from the composition due to strategic material needs, leading to steel alternatives. The design itself, introduced in 1943, was a powerful symbolic gesture during WWII.

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