1963 Canadian Five-Cent Coin (Nickel)

This is a 1963 Canadian five-cent coin, commonly referred to as a nickel. The reverse side is visible, featuring the iconic design by G.E. Kruger Gray: a beaver perched on a log (a national symbol of Canada) surrounded by water, with the denomination '5 CENTS' at the top and 'CANADA 1963' at the bottom. The coin is composed of 99.9% nickel, giving it a bright silvery-white appearance. In terms of dimensions, this issue standardly measures 21.21 mm in diameter with a weight of 4.54 grams and a thickness of 1.76 mm. The edge is smooth/plain. There are two maple leaves flanking the beaver design, a motif consistent with the post-1937 Canadian nickel series. The condition appears to be circulated; there is visible softening of the high points on the beaver's fur and the log's texture, suggesting moderate wear. Surface marks and small contact scratches are present across the field, consistent with standard currency circulation. No significant environmental damage or heavy corrosion is immediately apparent, though there is a subtle patina typical of nickel-cobalt alloys from this era. This specific year had a high mintage (approximately 44 million), making it a common but essential piece of mid-century Canadian numismatics.