Canadian paper money can be categorized into eight series. Most banknotes were printed for many years within a series, but kept the date of when the design was originally launched.
How can I tell if my old paper money is worth anything?
Paper money is one of the most intriguing areas of numismatics, but is also one of the most misunderstood. We’ve built this handy guide to help you better understand the bank notes in your collection, and hopefully find a hidden treasure!
DOMINION
Issued 1934 & prior
1935
Issued 1935-1936
1937
Issued 1937-1954
1954
Issued 1954-1991
MULTICOLOURED
Issued 1969-1993
BIRDS
Issued 1986-2003
JOURNEY
Issued 2001-2006
POLYMER
Issued 2011-present
Condition Matters
Condition is critical to the value of bank notes. Collectors are looking for the best notes possible, and will often pay a premium for exceptional quality.
Bank notes are graded using the scale below. Use these basic guidelines to check your notes.
GEM UNC - Gem Uncirculated Condition
Perfect!
UNC - Uncirculated Condition
One tiny imperfection
AU - Almost Uncirculated
A small crease
EF - Extremely Fine
One or two major folds
VF - Very Fine
Many folds & generally worn
F - Fine
Folded, faded & limp
VG - Very Good
All still there, but barely
Problems hurt value!
Beware of the following problems - they can impact the value of your bank note.
THINGS TO LOOK FOR
RETIRED DENOMINATIONS
Looking for more?
Browse our selection of collector paper money