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The Canada 1 Cent 1917 KM#21 coin is a representative artifact of Canadian history, minted during a significant period marked by World War I. This era not only influenced global politics but also impacted Canada’s domestic affairs and its economy. The coin, part of a series featuring King George V, was produced during a time when the Royal Canadian Mint was striving to establish a strong national identity through its coinage, amid the broader context of the war and its demands on the nation.
The obverse of the 1917 one-cent piece features the effigy of King George V, designed by Sir E. B. MacKennal. This portrait depicts the King in a dignified pose, wearing the Imperial State Crown, which symbolizes his role as the monarch of the British Commonwealth, including Canada. The reverse design includes the iconic image of two maple leaves, a timeless symbol of Canadian identity, which flanks the central denomination indication. This design has been a staple on Canadian cents since the early 20th century and continues to evoke a sense of national pride and heritage.
This particular coin is struck from a bronze alloy, which was typical for pennies of the time, consisting of 95.5% copper, 3% tin, and 1.5% zinc. This composition provided a durable yet affordable material suitable for widespread circulation. The bronze also lends a classic patina to the coin, which deepens over time and can add to the aesthetic and historical value of the coin, particularly when preserved in good condition.
In terms of condition, the Canada 1 Cent 1917 KM#21 is graded as XF (Extremely Fine). This grading indicates that the coin has only slight wear on the highest points of the design but retains most of its original details and features. Coins in this condition are particularly appealing to collectors because they offer a clear view of the historical design elements while also showing signs of their age and use, which can add character and narrative depth to a collection.
The mintage of the 1917 one-cent coin was relatively high, as pennies were crucial for everyday transactions in Canada at the time. However, finding coins from this year in Extremely Fine condition can be challenging due to the circulation wear typical of such commonly used denominations. Coins that have survived in such a state are often treasured by collectors for their rarity and the glimpse they offer into the coinage and economic conditions of early 20th-century Canada.
Modern collectors of the 1917 one-cent coin generally ensure that these historical pieces are well-protected. Typical preservation techniques include storing the coins in acid-free materials, using coin flips or holders that prevent environmental damage and handling wear. These methods help maintain the coin’s condition and ensure that it continues to provide both aesthetic pleasure and historical insight for future generations of numismatists.
Overall, the Canada 1 Cent 1917 KM#21 XF coin is more than just a piece of currency; it is a fragment of Canadian history encapsulated in metal. Its design, material, and condition speak volumes about the era in which it was produced. For collectors, this coin is not only a valuable piece due to its rarity in such fine condition but also a significant historical artifact that reflects the challenges and characteristics of its time.