Canada 1/4 oz Gold Maple Leaf Coin

The 1/4 oz Gold Maple Leaf Coin is one of the most recognized gold bullion coins minted by the Royal Canadian Mint. First introduced in 1982, this coin is known for its high purity and iconic maple leaf design, making it a favorite among both collectors and investors.

Design and Specifications

• Obverse (front): Features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, which has evolved over the years. The current design portrays a more mature Queen Elizabeth II.
• Reverse (back): Displays the iconic maple leaf, a symbol of Canada, with the inscriptions "Canada," "9999," and the weight and purity of the coin.
• Weight: 7.775 grams
• Gold Content: 0.25 troy ounces of pure gold
• Fineness: 99.99% pure gold (0.9999 fineness)

Mint Marks and Varieties

The 1/4 oz Gold Maple Leaf Coin is primarily struck at the Royal Canadian Mint in Ottawa and does not typically feature a mint mark. However, certain years and design changes can make specific coins more desirable:

• 1982: The inaugural year of the 1/4 oz Gold Maple Leaf; these coins are often sought after for their historical significance.
• Pre-1986: Coins minted before 1986 feature a younger portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Arnold Machin.
• 1986-1989: These coins feature the second portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Dora de Pédery-Hunt.
• 1990-Present: The current effigy by Susanna Blunt has been in use since 2005, with minor variations over the years.

Common Dates vs. Rare Dates

Most 1/4 oz Gold Maple Leaf Coins are produced in large quantities, making them readily available. Common dates include the years from the mid-1990s to the present, which are often sold at lower premiums above the gold content.

Rare Dates and Varieties

While the 1/4 oz Gold Maple Leaf Coins generally do not have extremely scarce dates, some earlier issues and certain design changes can be more valuable. For instance, the 1982 and other early mintages are more desirable. Additionally, coins with minimal production runs or those in exceptional condition can command higher premiums.

Various Grades and Values

The value of 1/4 oz Gold Maple Leaf Coins primarily hinges on their gold content and the current market price of gold. However, coins in higher grades or with specific desirable features can fetch higher prices. Here is a general estimate of the value based on grades for common-date coins:

• Good (G): Spot price of gold (approximately $450-500)
• Fine (F): Slight premium over spot price (approximately $475-525)
• Extremely Fine (XF): Moderate premium over spot price (approximately $500-550)
• About Uncirculated (AU): Higher premium over spot price (approximately $525-575)
• Brilliant Uncirculated (BU/MS): Significant premium over spot price (approximately $550-600)

Rare dates and early mintages can command prices well above these estimates, especially if they are in exceptional condition.

The 1/4 oz Gold Maple Leaf Coin is a key piece in the world of gold bullion. With its high purity and iconic design, it appeals to both collectors and investors. Early mintages and coins in superior condition can command higher premiums, but even common-date coins remain a popular choice for those looking to invest in gold. The coin's value is closely tied to the market price of gold, making it a reliable investment option.

1/4 oz Gold Maple Leaf Coin Auctions