Newfoundland Silver Coins
Newfoundland issued silver coins from 1865 until 1947 — struck in 92.5% sterling silver, higher than most Canadian federal coinage. These coins are collected across Canada and can be worth significantly more than their silver content alone.
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Which Newfoundland Coins Are Silver?
Five of the six Newfoundland coin denominations contain silver: the 5-cent, 10-cent, 20-cent, 25-cent, and 50-cent pieces. All are struck in 92.5% sterling silver — the same purity used in British coinage of the era and higher than the 80% silver used in Canadian federal coins from 1920 onward.
The 1-cent and 2-cent pieces are copper and do not contain silver. However, they can still carry collector value, particularly in higher grades or for key dates.
Many people discover Newfoundland silver coins in inherited collections, old coin albums, or mixed jars of coins. Because they look similar to Canadian coins of the same era, they are sometimes overlooked. If you find coins with "NEWFOUNDLAND" on the reverse, they are worth having assessed.
Newfoundland Silver Coins by Denomination
Each denomination has its own range of dates, key issues, and value considerations.
5-Cent
1865–1947
92.5% SilverSmall but collectible. Scarce dates include 1885, 1888, and 1894. Even common dates carry a silver premium. Condition matters significantly — a well-preserved example is worth considerably more than a worn one.
10-Cent
1865–1947
92.5% SilverPopular with collectors. Key dates include 1885 and 1888. The 10-cent piece is one of the most actively traded Newfoundland denominations. Look for sharp details on the portrait and reverse design.
20-Cent
1865–1900
92.5% SilverUnique to Newfoundland — no other Canadian province issued a 20-cent coin. All dates carry collector interest. The 20-cent piece is especially appealing to collectors of provincial and pre-Confederation coinage.
Full value guide →25-Cent
1917–1919
92.5% SilverOnly issued for three years. Relatively scarce compared to other Newfoundland denominations. Both the 1917 and 1919 dates are worth researching, particularly in better grades.
50-Cent
1870–1919
92.5% SilverThe flagship Newfoundland coin for most collectors. Key dates include the 1888 and 1894. Even common dates in circulated condition can be worth $50–$200 or more. High-grade examples command significant premiums.
Full value guide →How to Assess Your Newfoundland Silver Coins
Before uploading photos for an estimate, these four steps will help you understand what you have.
Check the Date First
The date is the single most important factor after denomination. Some years had very low mintage numbers and are genuinely scarce. Look at the date carefully — even a small difference can mean a large difference in value.
Assess the Condition
Coins graded Fine or better are worth significantly more than heavily worn examples. Look for sharp details on the portrait, clear lettering, and minimal surface damage. Do not clean the coin — cleaning permanently reduces value.
Understand the Silver Base Value
Every Newfoundland silver coin has a minimum value based on its silver content and the current silver spot price. This floor value means even common dates are worth more than face value.
Photograph Both Sides
Clear photos of the obverse (portrait side) and reverse (denomination side) are essential for an accurate estimate. Natural light and a steady hand produce the best results. Avoid flash photography, which can wash out surface details.
Found Newfoundland Coins in an Inherited Collection?
Newfoundland coins turn up frequently in inherited collections, particularly in albums assembled by collectors in Atlantic Canada. If you have inherited a collection and are not sure what you have, upload photos of everything — including any coins labelled "Newfoundland" or with denominations like 20 cents or 50 cents that look older than standard Canadian coins.
Learn about selling an inherited collection →Related Newfoundland Coin Guides
Explore specific denominations and topics in more detail.
Sell Newfoundland Coins
How to get a free estimate and sell your Newfoundland coins.
Newfoundland Coins Value Guide
Overview of all Newfoundland coin denominations and what affects their value.
Newfoundland 50-Cent Value
Key dates, value ranges, and what to look for in the 50-cent piece.
Newfoundland 20-Cent Coin Value
The unique 20-cent piece — dates, silver content, and collector value.
Free Coin Estimate
How the free photo estimate process works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Newfoundland coins contain silver?
Newfoundland 5-cent, 10-cent, 20-cent, 25-cent, and 50-cent coins are all struck in sterling silver (92.5% silver). The 1-cent and 2-cent pieces are copper and do not contain silver.
How much silver is in a Newfoundland coin?
Newfoundland silver coins are struck in 92.5% sterling silver — higher than the 80% silver used in most Canadian federal coins. The exact silver weight depends on the denomination: the 50-cent piece contains the most silver by weight, followed by the 25-cent, 20-cent, 10-cent, and 5-cent pieces.
Are Newfoundland silver coins worth more than their silver content?
Yes, in most cases. While all Newfoundland silver coins have a base value tied to the current silver price, collector demand adds a premium for most dates and denominations. Key dates and coins in better condition can be worth many times their silver melt value.
Where can I sell Newfoundland silver coins in Canada?
SellMyCoins.ca buys Newfoundland silver coins from across Canada. Upload photos for a free written purchase estimate. If you accept the offer, you receive a prepaid Canada Post shipping label and payment by Interac e-Transfer once the coins arrive.
Upload Newfoundland Coin Photos
Upload clear photos of your Newfoundland silver coins for a free written purchase estimate from SellMyCoins.ca. No coin knowledge required — just clear photos of both sides of each coin.
Upload Newfoundland Coin PhotosMost photo submissions reviewed within 24–48 hours · No obligation to sell
This guide covers Newfoundland silver coins — which denominations contain silver, what affects their value, and how to get a free estimate. If you have Newfoundland coins and want to know what they may be worth, upload photos for a free assessment.
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.