The Low Down on Canadian Currency
| Currency: | Canadian Dollar |
| Currency code: | CAD |
| Central Bank: | Bank of Canada |
| Currency symbol: | $, Can$, C$ (dollar) |
| Currency sub unit: | ¢ (cent) |
| Nicknames: | buck, loonie (English), huard, piastre (French) |
| Bank notes: | $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100, $500 |
| Coins: | 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, 50¢, $1, $2 |
The Montreal Bank issued the first notes in 1821 and 20 years later the first Canadian Pounds were issues. However, by 1858, the Canadian Dollar was issued to more closely align with the US Dollar.
The first banknotes issued by the Bank of Canada came along in 1934. In 2011 Canada began to produce a more durable polymer note similar to those used in Australia.
The most commonly used denominations are: 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100.
What to spend your Canadian dollars on:
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Entry to Toronto Skypod
29 CAD
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3-mile taxi ride
8.75 CAD
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Tourist t-shirt
10 CAD
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Postcard and a stamp
3 CAD
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Bottle of water
1.50 CAD
A budget
RecalculateMust-sees in Canada
- Whistler
- Whistler is quite possibly the most famous ski resort in all of North America, know for it's epic slopes and views, this is a must-do for anyone who loves skiing.
- Vancouver Island
- This remote island is accessible by ferry and features quaint towns as well famous surf spots. You can also use the island as a jumping off point to reach Alaska.
- Quebec City
- Get your French on in the capital of Quebec where you'll feel more like you're in a quaint European city rather than a major North American city.
Buying Canadian dollars Online is Easy
Simply order your Canadian dollars online to lock in the rate, then choose to collect at your local store or at the airport before you fly.
Travelling to Canada in the Future?
Track Rates and get notified when the Canadian dollar matches your ideal rate so you can decide if it’s a good time to buy!
Track RatesPrefer to Buy in Store?
If buying online is not your thing, visit your nearest Travelex store around and one of our friendly sales consultants will help you organise your real for your trip to Canada.
Find a StoreTravel Card or Cash?
What’s Better When Travelling Abroad?
We’ve outlined the pros and cons of travelling with a travel card or cash to help you decide.
Learn more