Reverse At the top is a crown, the symbol of British rulers. To the left, bottom, and right along the rim are crossed maple branches tied together with a ribbon forming a bow. In the central part, a three-line inscription in English reads '10 cents 1887'. The edge of the coin features decorative elements in the form of dots.
Obverse In the central part of the coin, the left-facing profile of Queen Victoria of Great Britain is struck. Along the arc of the coin's edge from left to right runs the text 'VICTORIA DEI GRATIA REGINA.', which translates to 'Victoria by the Grace of God Queen', with the country name 'CANADA' below. The edge of the coin has raised elements in the form of dots.