Description
The 1979 Canada Specimen Set is a seven-coin collector issue from the Royal Canadian Mint, featuring Canada’s circulating denominations struck in specimen finish for enhanced detail, satin luster, and superior eye appeal. This set is notable for including the Double Penny and the classic Voyageur $1, making it a desirable early specimen-era release.
The coins are housed in their original pocket-size maroon leather-like presentation case, compact and elegant, designed for both protection and portability. The set also includes the original Royal Canadian Mint specifications card, confirming official issue details and compositions.
Design Highlights
Obverse (Front): Queen Elizabeth II
All seven coins feature the right-facing effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, surrounded by bilingual inscriptions. The specimen striking enhances portrait detail with a refined, satin-like finish.
Reverse (Back): Classic Canadian Coinage Designs
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1 Dollar (Voyageur): Iconic Voyageur canoe scene representing Canada’s fur trade heritage.
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50 Cents: Royal Coat of Arms of Canada with the motto A Mari Usque Ad Mare.
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25 Cents: Caribou in profile, symbolizing Canada’s northern wilderness.
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10 Cents: Bluenose schooner, a tribute to Canada’s maritime legacy.
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5 Cents: Beaver on a log, a long-standing national emblem.
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1 Cent (Penny): Maple leaf twig design.
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Additional Penny (Double Penny): Second cent included, a distinctive feature of this set.
Key Features
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Official Royal Canadian Mint Specimen Set: Authentic 1979 collector issue.
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Specimen Finish: Enhanced strike quality with refined satin surfaces.
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Double Penny Inclusion: Notable feature adding collector interest.
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Classic Canadian Designs: Timeless circulating coin motifs.
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Original Presentation: Pocket-size maroon leather-like case with specifications card.
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Collector Appeal: Early specimen set with traditional compositions and designs.
Specifications
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Country: Canada
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Mint: Royal Canadian Mint (RCM)
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Year: 1979
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Denominations: 1¢ (x2), 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, 50¢, $1
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Finish: Specimen
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Number of Coins: 7
Composition Details (per official RCM specifications):
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$1 Dollar (Voyageur): Nickel – 15.62 g
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50 Cents: Nickel – 8.10 g
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25 Cents: Nickel – 5.05 g
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10 Cents: Nickel – 2.07 g
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5 Cents: Nickel – 4.54 g
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1 Cent (each): Bronze – approx. 3.2 g
Packaging
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Presentation Case: Original maroon leather-like pocket-size case (see photos)
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Insert: Original Royal Canadian Mint specifications card included
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Condition: Coins display strong specimen detail; case shows normal age-related wear consistent with vintage sets
Why Collect This Set?
The 1979 Canada Specimen Set offers a blend of classic Canadian coinage, specimen-grade quality, and a distinctive double-penny format. Its compact maroon presentation case and traditional designs make it a compelling addition for collectors of Canadian specimen sets or vintage Royal Canadian Mint issues.











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