The 1979 Canadian $20 bill, featuring the iconic portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, holds a special place in numismatics, particularly among Canadian collectors. While the bill is relatively common, certain factors can significantly impact its value. Understanding the nuances of grading, condition, and specific variations can help you determine the worth of your 1979 Canadian $20 bill and whether it holds any potential for significant appreciation.
Identifying Key Features of the 1979 $20 Bill
The 1979 Canadian $20 bill, a part of the "Birds of Canada" series, boasts a distinctive design that distinguishes it from other banknotes in circulation.
Front:
- Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II: The prominent image of Queen Elizabeth II in her regal attire graces the center of the bill, surrounded by intricate details.
- Serial Number: The serial number, typically black in color, is located in the bottom right corner. The prefix letters "C" and "D" are common, indicating their printing at the Canadian Bank Note Company.
- Watermark: A watermark depicting Queen Elizabeth II's profile appears on the right side of the bill when held up to the light.
Back:
- Canada Goose: The back of the bill features a vibrant illustration of a Canada Goose in flight, a symbol of Canadian wildlife and national pride.
- Parliament Buildings: The iconic Parliament Buildings in Ottawa, the nation's capital, provide a backdrop for the goose, showcasing architectural beauty and national significance.
Factors Affecting Value: Grading and Condition
The value of your 1979 Canadian $20 bill hinges primarily on its condition and grading. A pristine, uncirculated bill commands a higher price than a heavily worn or damaged one. Here's a breakdown of key factors and grading systems:
Grading Systems:
- PMG (Paper Money Guaranty): PMG is a reputable third-party grading service for paper money. They assess bills based on a scale of 1-70, with 70 being the highest grade for a pristine, uncirculated note.
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service): PCGS also offers grading services for paper money. They use a similar grading scale to PMG, with higher grades indicating a better condition.
Condition and Value:
- Uncirculated: An uncirculated 1979 $20 bill, meaning it has never been in circulation and remains in pristine condition, can fetch a significant value, depending on the grading. Grades of 65 or higher are considered highly collectible and can fetch several hundred dollars.
- Circulated: Bills that have been in circulation will exhibit signs of wear and tear. The value will vary based on the degree of wear, with lightly circulated bills commanding higher prices than heavily worn ones.
- Errors: Errors, such as misaligned printing or mismatched serial numbers, can significantly increase the value of a bill. These errors make the bill unique and highly sought after by collectors.
Other Factors Influencing Value:
Beyond grading, other factors can impact the price of a 1979 Canadian $20 bill:
- Signatures: The signatures of the Bank of Canada Governor and Deputy Governor at the time of printing can contribute to the bill's value.
- Serial Number: Specific serial numbers, such as low serial numbers or those with interesting patterns, can increase the value of the bill.
- Rarity: Some 1979 $20 bills may be rarer than others due to variations in printing or circulation patterns.
Tips for Assessing Your 1979 $20 Bill:
- Compare with Images: Use reputable online resources or reference books to compare your bill's appearance with known examples of uncirculated and circulated notes.
- Look for Wear and Tear: Examine the bill for signs of wear and tear, such as creases, tears, stains, or fading.
- Check for Errors: Carefully scrutinize the bill for any printing errors or inconsistencies.
- Consider Grading: If you believe your bill might be in excellent condition or contains valuable features, consider having it professionally graded by PMG or PCGS.
Where to Sell or Buy a 1979 Canadian $20 Bill:
- Online Auction Sites: Sites like eBay or specialized paper money auction sites can provide a platform to sell or buy 1979 Canadian $20 bills.
- Coin and Stamp Dealers: Local coin and stamp dealers are knowledgeable about paper money and can offer an appraisal or purchase your bill.
- Numismatic Shows and Events: Attending numismatic shows and events can connect you with other collectors and dealers who might be interested in buying or selling.
Conclusion: The Value of a 1979 Canadian $20 Bill
The 1979 Canadian $20 bill can hold significant value, especially for collectors seeking pristine examples or bills with unique features. Understanding the intricacies of grading, condition, and other factors influencing value is crucial to determining its worth. From its iconic Queen Elizabeth II portrait to the vibrant Canada Goose imagery, this bill remains a cherished piece of Canadian numismatics. By carefully evaluating your 1979 $20 bill and using the resources and tips provided, you can uncover its potential value and secure your place in the fascinating world of Canadian banknotes.
