Part of the Newfoundland Coins Value Guide — covering all denominations, silver content, and what affects value.
Newfoundland Penny Value
The Newfoundland large cent is one of the most distinctive coins in Canadian numismatics. Struck from 1865 to 1936, these bronze coins feature the iconic Newfoundland pitcher plant and are larger than the standard Canadian cent. Here is everything you need to know about their value.
About the Newfoundland Large Cent
The Newfoundland large cent was issued from 1865 until 1936 — the year before Newfoundland stopped issuing its own coinage. At 25.4 mm in diameter, it is noticeably larger than the Canadian small cent introduced in 1920. The obverse features the reigning British monarch, while the reverse displays the Newfoundland pitcher plant (Sarracenia purpurea), the provincial flower.
Coins were struck at the Royal Mint in London, the Heaton Mint in Birmingham (identified by an "H" mintmark), and the Ottawa Mint. The mintmark, when present, appears after the date. Coins without a mintmark were struck in London.
The series spans 13 major dates, with mintages ranging from 40,000 (the scarce 1885) to over one million (the common 1900). Condition is critical — a well-preserved example can be worth 10 to 20 times more than a heavily worn one of the same date.
Newfoundland Large Cent Value by Date
Values in Canadian dollars. VG = Very Good, F = Fine, VF = Very Fine, EF = Extremely Fine.
| Date | Mintage | VG | F | VF | EF |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1865 | 240,000 | $8 | $20 | $55 | $120 |
| 1872H | 200,000 | $10 | $25 | $65 | $140 |
| 1873 | 200,000 | $25 | $60 | $150 | $350 |
| 1880 | 400,000 | $8 | $18 | $45 | $100 |
| 1885 | 40,000 | $60 | $150 | $400 | $900 |
| 1890 | 200,000 | $8 | $18 | $45 | $100 |
| 1894 | 200,000 | $8 | $18 | $45 | $100 |
| 1896 | 200,000 | $8 | $18 | $45 | $100 |
| 1900 | 1,000,000 | $4 | $10 | $25 | $60 |
| 1904H | 100,000 | $15 | $35 | $90 | $200 |
| 1909 | 200,000 | $8 | $18 | $45 | $100 |
| 1913 | 400,000 | $5 | $12 | $30 | $70 |
| 1936 | 300,000 | $4 | $10 | $25 | $55 |
Values are approximate retail ranges. Uncirculated (MS) examples command significant premiums above EF values.
Key Dates and Varieties
With only 40,000 struck, the 1885 is the rarest date in the series. Even in heavily worn condition it is worth $60+. A nice EF example can bring $900 or more. This is the coin every Newfoundland cent collector wants.
The 1873 is the second-scarcest date with a mintage of 200,000 but lower survival rates than later issues. Values are roughly double those of common dates.
The 1904H has a relatively low mintage of 100,000 and is noticeably scarcer than surrounding dates. The "H" mintmark identifies it as a Heaton Mint product.
Several dates show re-engraved numerals visible under magnification. These varieties are catalogued in the Charlton Standard Catalogue and can carry small premiums.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tell a Newfoundland cent from a Canadian cent?
Newfoundland cents are larger (25.4 mm vs. 19.05 mm for the Canadian small cent) and inscribed "NEWFOUNDLAND" on the reverse. The reverse design shows a pitcher plant rather than maple leaves.
Are all Newfoundland pennies silver?
No. Newfoundland large cents are bronze (copper alloy), not silver. Only Newfoundland coins in denominations of 5 cents and above are silver.
My Newfoundland cent looks shiny — is it cleaned?
Possibly. Cleaned coins lose collector value significantly. A naturally toned, uncleaned coin is always worth more than a polished one. If it looks unnaturally bright, it has likely been cleaned.
Does SellMyCoins.ca buy Newfoundland pennies?
Yes. We buy Newfoundland large cents in all grades and dates. Upload photos for a free estimate — even common dates in nice condition are worth selling.
Have a Newfoundland Penny to Sell?
Upload photos for a free estimate. We buy Newfoundland large cents in all grades — from common dates to the scarce 1885.
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This guide explains the value of Canadian coins, including key dates, silver content, and factors that affect collector value. If you believe you may have a valuable coin, you can upload photos for a free 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.