Who’s On Canadian Money?
The faces on Canada’s money are a reflection of the stories and people that built the country. From well-known politicians to influential thinkers, the faces of Canada are found on the coins and bills used in everyday life. From the coins in your pocket to the banknotes in your wallet, learn more about the famous Canadians that appear.
History of Canadian Currency
Canada has used a variety of currencies throughout its history. The earliest Canadian coins commonly consisted of English provincial coins, Spanish dollars, and French livres that were first produced in New France in 1759. In 1841, Canadian pounds, shillings, and pence were introduced by the Province of Canada and remained in circulation until 1858. From 1858 until the establishment of the Canadian dollar in 1871, the Canadian colonies used the same dollars as the United States. The Canadian dollar has been the official currency of Canada since 1871 and it is now recognized around the world.
The Current Faces of Canadian Money
Canada’s bills and coins feature a range of people, from monarchs of the British Empire to prominent Canadians from all walks of life. Each individual’s portrait is chosen for its contributions to Canadian identity and culture.
$5 Bill – Wilfrid Laurier
The $5 Common bill features Sir Wilfrid Laurier, the seventh Prime Minister of Canada from 1896-1911. Representing the Liberal Party, Laurier is also the first francophone Prime Minister, officially recognized as a Father of Confederation.
$10 Bill – John A. Macdonald
The $10 Common bill features Sir John A. Macdonald, the first Prime Minister of Canada sworn in 1867 and the first leader of the newly formed Conservative Party of Canada. He was one of the Fathers of the Confederation when Canada was united in 1867.
$20 Bill – Queen Victoria
The $20 Frontiers bill features Queen Victoria, the monarch of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland from 1837 to 1901. She also held the title of Empress of India and was the province of Canada’s first reigning monarch.
$50 Bill – William Lyon Mackenzie King
The $50 Frontiers bill features William Lyon Mackenzie King, the tenth Prime Minister of Canada from 1921 – 1948. Representing the Liberal Party, he is the longest-serving Prime Minister in Canadian history and the only three-time majority Prime Minister.
$100 Bill – Robert Borden
The $100 Frontiers bill features Robert Borden, the eighth Prime Minister of Canada from 1911 to 1920 and the first leader of the Conservative Party of Canada. He is known to history as the Prime Minister of Canada during WWI and he also certified the Treaty of Versailles.
Canadian Coins
Canadian coins feature a variety of images and symbols representing the country.
1 cent (penny) – Bluenose Schooner
The 1 cent coin features the Bluenose schooner, a celebrated racing and fishing ship launched in 1921. The vessel has gone on to become an important and beloved symbol of Canadian maritime strength and national pride.
5 cent (nickel) – Beaver
The 5 cent coin features the beaver, which is an officially recognized symbol of Canada and appears on the Canadian quarter and dime. The beaver is a symbol of industry, hard work, and determination in building a prosperous country.
10 cent (dime) – Bluenose Schooner
The 10 cent coin features the Bluenose schooner, the same image that appears on the 1 cent coin. This symbol of Canada’s maritime history and strength is also a reminder of the country’s commitment to the fishing industry.
25 cent (quarter) – Queen Elizabeth II
The 25 cent coin features Queen Elizabeth II, the European monarch and current Head of State of Canada since 1952. She is the longest-reigning monarch in British history and is known for her commitment to public service.
50 cent (half dollar) – Caribou
The 50 cent coin features a pair of caribou, with antlers that represent the northward orientation of Canadian expansion and the migratory power of Canadian wildlife. The caribou is also part of the Canadian coat of arms, which reflects values of perseverance and resilience.
1 dollar (loonie) – Common Loon
The 1 dollar coin features the common loon, which is a symbol of Canada’s natural wildlife and appears on the Canadian flag and coat of arms. The loonie has become an iconic image of Canada and is recognized around the world.
2 dollar (toonie) – Polar Bear
The 2 dollar coin features a polar bear, which is an official symbol of Canada and part of the Canadian coat of arms. This largest of the bear species is well-adapted to life in the Canadian Arctic and serves as a reminder of the Arctic’s natural beauty and diversity.
From political leaders to iconic images, the faces of Canada that appear on our money reflect the unique history of the country. Every coin and bill features a person or symbol that defines the culture, values, and identity of Canada as a nation. From Queens and Prime Ministers to ships and polar bears, the faces of Canada appear every day.
