The 1985 Canadian Blunt 5 Nickel: A Small Detail Worth Big Attention
The 1985 “Blunt 5” nickel featuring Queen Elizabeth II is a unique and interesting coin that has caught the eye of collectors across Canada. What makes it special is the slightly different shape of the number “5” in the year—an easy-to-miss detail that can make the coin more valuable.
What is the ‘Blunt 5’?
In 1985, the Royal Canadian Mint made nickels with two types of number 5s in the date:
- Blunt 5: This version has a flat, squared end on the “5”, giving it a thicker, blocky look.
- Pointed 5: This one has a sharp tip, more in line with the usual number design.
The reason for these differences is believed to be due to a change in the dies (the tools that stamp the design onto coins) during production. This resulted in two different versions of the same coin being released that year.
Basic Details of the 1985 Canadian Nickel
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 1985 |
| Front (Obverse) | Queen Elizabeth II |
| Back (Reverse) | Beaver design |
| Material | 100% Nickel |
| Weight | 4.54 grams |
| Size | 21.2 mm in diameter |
| Edge | Smooth (plain) |
| Mintage | 126,618,000 coins produced |
| Variations | Blunt 5 and Pointed 5 versions |
Is the Blunt 5 Nickel Valuable?
Both types of the 1985 nickel were released into circulation, but the Blunt 5 is more popular with collectors due to its unusual look.
- In regular used condition, the value is only a little more than face value.
- In mint condition or professionally graded, the value can go up quite a bit.
For example:
- A top-grade MS-69 Blunt 5 nickel has been listed for around $80.
- A proof-like coin graded PF70 UCAM (Ultra Cameo) has been priced at $199.99 on some online coin sites.
Why This Coin Matters
The 1985 Blunt 5 nickel is a great example of how even small changes in a coin’s design can become important to collectors. It tells a story about how coins are made and how unexpected changes can create something special.
For coin collectors, finding and owning a coin like this adds something extra to their collection—not just in value, but in history.
FAQs
How do I tell if I have a Blunt 5 nickel?
Look closely at the number 5 in the year. A Blunt 5 has a flat, squared end. A Pointed 5 ends in a sharp tip.
Is the Blunt 5 nickel rare?
It’s not extremely rare, but it’s less common than the Pointed 5, which makes it more desirable for collectors.
Are there other coins with this type of variation?
Yes! Similar blunt and pointed 5 versions also appeared in Canadian one-cent coins from 1985, showing that these die differences affected multiple coin types that year.
Conclusion
The 1985 Blunt 5 nickel is proof that even tiny details can turn an ordinary coin into something worth collecting. While it may not make you rich, finding one adds an interesting piece to your collection and connects you to a cool moment in Canadian minting history. So next time you’re checking your change, keep an eye out—you might just spot this hidden gem.