The Canadian 1930 Small Cent was minted during the early years of the Great Depression. Politically, Prime Minister Richard Bedford Bennett was in office as the country faced economic hardship. The 1930 Small Cent, featuring King George V’s portrait, symbolized Canada’s continued use of small, practical currency during challenging times. Its design remained consistent, with a maple wreath reverse, reflecting the country’s desire for stability despite the economic downturn.
Economically, Canada was struggling with high unemployment and a decline in production. The 1930 Small Cent, made of bronze, remained essential for daily transactions, even as Canadians dealt with the financial collapse. Socially, the 1930 Small Cent was a tangible representation of a difficult period, as it circulated widely in an effort to maintain commerce and provide some stability in everyday life during the Depression.