Need Help Identifying Specimen Coins

Hello Everybody;

I recently became interested in collecting specimen coins but, I have some questions regarding Canadian SP coins.

My first question is; how do you identify an older Canadian specimen coin (not a modern coin in a set...)? Also, I find it very hard to tell the difference between specimen and proof like on coins prior the modern ones.

The one thing I have heard is that specimen coins have a lined background but, I am not sure if this is true for older coins.

My second questions is; which years did Canada mint specimen finish coins? I have a Charlton guide but, I have read a lot of different information on the web.

ANY help would be great and pictures would be appreciated.

THANKS!

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