Canadian Dollar

CAD

Official currency of Canada

C$ Symbol

BoC

About the Canadian Dollar

The Province of Canada decimalized its currency and introduced the Canadian Dollar in 1858, aligning its currency system with that of the United States.

The name 'Dollar' originates from the German 'Thaler', a silver coin, which became the Spanish 'dollar' and was widely used in North America.

Interesting Facts

The Loonie and the Toonie

The Canadian one-dollar coin is affectionately called a 'Loonie' because of the loon on its reverse. The two-dollar coin is subsequently called a 'Toonie'.

A Major Reserve Currency

The Canadian Dollar is one of the top ten most held reserve currencies in the world, reflecting Canada's economic and political stability.

Vertical $10 Bill

A new, vertically oriented $10 banknote featuring social justice icon Viola Desmond was named Banknote of the Year in 2018.

Historical Timeline

1858

The Canadian Dollar is introduced.

1871

The Uniform Currency Act makes the Canadian Dollar the single currency for the entire Dominion of Canada.

1934

The Bank of Canada is established.

2011

The Bank of Canada begins introducing polymer banknotes.

2013

The penny (1-cent coin) is withdrawn from circulation.

Denominations

Banknotes

C$5 Blue

C$10 Purple

C$20 Green

C$50 Red

C$100 Brown

Coins

5 cents (nickel)

10 cents (dime)

25 cents (quarter)

1 dollar (Loonie)

2 dollars (Toonie)

Security Features

Polymer substrate Large, transparent window with holographic features Raised ink (intaglio printing) Maple leaf see-through feature UV-activated elements