Reverse: Along the rim on top, “CANADA”. In the center, a Downy Woodpecker on a tree branch. Along the rim at the bottom, the face value and the year of issue.

Obverse: The portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Along the rim, the inscriptions "Elizabeth II" on the left, and "D•G•REGINA" on the right. At the bottom, the Royal Canadian Mint mark.

Of the 13 woodpecker species living year-round in Canada, the Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) is the smallest and most familiar. At just 6-7 inches, it can excavate a nest cavity in a dead tree just 4 inches around. This gives the Downy more habitat options than larger woodpeckers that need bigger trees, and it often nests in suburban woods across southern Canada. The Downy can survive a life-time of hammering because its strong, chisel-shaped beak, spongy skull structure and strong neck muscles absorb the force of the blows. Even its nostrils are covered with feathers to avoid inhaling sawdust.