jrc (10/21/82)
Canadian coins up until 1967 had an approximately 80% silver content. As a matter of fact, in the late 60's there was a significant border trade in smuggling Canadian coinage into the U.S. in order to melt it down for the silver content, which was worth more than the face value. In 1968 the silver content was reduced to 50% and in 1969 eliminated altogether. The last time I visited the border towns of western New York (near Niagara Falls) they were so happy to see Canadian tourists that they took all Canadian coins and most small bills at par. This was, mind you, some years ago, but I would be somewhat suprised if they did not still accept at least coinage in order to encourage tourism. Jim.