Part of the Newfoundland Coins Value Guide — covering all denominations, silver content, and what affects value.
Newfoundland Silver Coin Values
All Newfoundland silver coins — from the tiny 5-cent piece to the substantial 50-cent piece — are struck in high-purity sterling silver and carry significant collector value above their metal content. Here is a complete guide to what they are worth.
Silver Content of Newfoundland Coins
Newfoundland silver coins struck before 1920 are 92.5% sterling silver — the same purity as British sterling. This is higher than the 80% silver used on Canadian coins from 1920 to 1967. The higher purity gives pre-1920 Newfoundland coins a slightly higher silver content per gram and a distinctive bright appearance when uncirculated.
After 1919, Newfoundland switched to 80% silver for its 5-cent and 10-cent pieces, aligning with the Canadian standard. The 20-cent piece was discontinued in 1900, and the 25-cent and 50-cent pieces were only struck through 1919, so all examples of those denominations are 92.5% silver.
At current silver prices, the melt value of a Newfoundland 50-cent piece is approximately $10–$12 CAD. However, collector value far exceeds melt value for virtually every Newfoundland silver coin — even the most common dates are worth $30+ in VG condition.
Values by Denomination
5 Cents (1865–1947)
The smallest Newfoundland silver coin. Features the caribou head on the reverse. Key dates include 1873, 1880, 1885, 1894, and 1904H.
10 Cents (1865–1947)
Features the Newfoundland fishing schooner. The 1888 is the key date with only 30,000 struck. Other scarce dates include 1873, 1880, and 1885.
20 Cents (1865–1900)
A unique denomination found only in Newfoundland. All dates are collectible. Key dates are 1880 and 1885 with mintages of only 30,000–40,000.
25 Cents (1917–1919)
Struck for only three years, replacing the 20-cent piece. All three dates (1917C, 1918C, 1919C) are collectible with relatively low mintages.
50 Cents (1870–1919)
The flagship Newfoundland coin. Key dates are 1870, 1876H, and 1885. The 1876H with only 28,000 struck is the rarest date in the series.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all Newfoundland silver coins worth more than their silver melt value?
Yes, for virtually every date and denomination. Even the most common Newfoundland silver coins are worth 3–10x their silver melt value due to collector demand. Key dates can be worth 50–100x melt value.
How do I identify the purity of my Newfoundland silver coin?
Pre-1920 coins are 92.5% silver; post-1919 coins are 80% silver. You can identify the era by the date. There is no purity marking on the coins themselves.
What is the most valuable Newfoundland silver coin?
The 1876H 50-cent piece is generally the most valuable, with EF examples selling for $5,000–$8,000+. The 1870 50-cent piece and 1885 50-cent piece are close seconds.
Should I sell my Newfoundland silver coins for melt value?
No. Collector value almost always exceeds melt value for Newfoundland silver coins. Always get an assessment before selling — even common dates are worth significantly more than their silver content.
Have Newfoundland Silver Coins to Sell?
Upload photos for a free estimate. We buy all Newfoundland silver coins — common dates and key dates alike.
Get Your Free EstimateMost photo submissions reviewed within 24–48 hours · No obligation to sell
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.