Where People Commonly Find Old Coins
You don't need to be a coin collector to have valuable coins. Here are the most common ways Canadians discover coins worth more than they expected.
Coins Found in a Jar
Old coin jars often contain pre-1968 Canadian silver coins mixed in with modern change. Even a handful of silver dimes or quarters can be worth $20–$50 or more.
Inherited Collections
Family coin collections passed down through estates frequently include silver dollars, 50-cent pieces, and rare dates that are worth far more than face value.
Coins in Drawers or Boxes
Coins tucked away in old drawers, jewellery boxes, or envelopes are often forgotten. These are frequently the most interesting finds — old, uncirculated, and valuable.
Old Coin Albums or Sets
Coin albums and sets from the 1960s and 1970s often contain complete Centennial sets, proof coins, and silver dollars still in original packaging.
Estate Cleanouts
Clearing out a family home often turns up coin collections, rolls of old coins, or loose coins in unexpected places. We can help identify and value what you find.
Coins You Cannot Identify
If you have coins with unfamiliar designs, unusual sizes, or markings you don't recognize, upload photos and we'll help identify them for you.
Coins Commonly Found That May Be Valuable
These are the types of coins most often discovered in old Canadian collections. Click any coin to learn more about its value.
How to Identify a Canadian Coin
Not sure what you're looking at? Here are the key things to check on any Canadian coin.
Check the date
The year is usually on the front (obverse) of the coin. Coins dated 1967 or earlier are the most likely to contain silver.
Look at the denomination
The value (1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, 50¢, $1) is usually on the back (reverse). Larger denominations in older dates tend to be worth more.
Check the colour
Silver coins have a bright silver-white colour. Nickel coins look similar but are slightly duller. Copper coins are brown or reddish.
Look for unusual designs
The 1967 Centennial coins feature wildlife designs (mackerel, dove, wolf, lynx, goose). These are among the most popular Canadian coins.
Check for Newfoundland markings
Newfoundland coins say "NEWFOUNDLAND" on the reverse. These pre-Confederation coins are scarce and often valuable.
Browse Coin Value Guides
Use these guides to research specific coins before uploading photos.
This page helps Canadians identify coins found in jars, inherited collections, old coin sets, and family estates. Many of these coins contain silver or have collector value. Upload photos for a free identification and value estimate.
How Coin Values Are Determined
Four key factors influence what a coin is worth. Understanding these helps you know what to look for.
Rarity
Coins with low mintage numbers or surviving in small quantities are worth more. A coin minted in the millions is common; one minted in the thousands can be scarce.
Condition
Collectors grade coins from Poor (heavily worn) to Mint State (uncirculated). A coin in excellent condition can be worth many times more than the same coin in worn condition.
Silver or Gold Content
Many older Canadian coins contain 80% silver. Even a common silver coin has a base value tied to the current silver price, regardless of collector demand.
Collector Demand
Some coins are actively sought by collectors, which drives prices higher. Key dates, varieties, and coins from popular series attract more buyers.