I have no idea if this is a fluke or whatever, so your mileage may vary.

On April 22nd, I decided to get a $20 card, because that is what I usually get. Keep in mind, the new policy does not have $20 cards anymore. I insisted on a $20 card to see what would happen. The cashier overrides something, and out spits a $20 card. I punch it in, and I get a 6 month expiry. I never checked to see if it is 20 cents or 25 cents though.

This was in Halifax. I would just ask them for a $20 card in your area, and see what happens. It would be interesting to know if this was a fluke or a loophole.