Expert: PAPAJACK - 12/1/2007

Question
I read your answer to Christian about the date size and it was great help. Do you know of way to tell the difference between the zinc and the copper penny? Which one is more common? I have five large date 1982s and they all look the same to me.

Answer
Hello Raeann,                                  

I do not remember the question and answer you are referring to.

There is no easy way to see the difference between the copper and zinc types on the coins.

I do it by weighing them. The Copper Cent weighs 3.11 grams and the Zinc Cents only weigh 2.50 grams each.

Now with the cents separated put them in a marked container, or you will possibly end up mixing them again! (Accidents Happen)

The same dies were used for the copper and zinc types at both Denver and Philadelphia. So there is no Large Date/ Small Date difference in style between the two metals for strike.

As you experience separating the coins you will get better at it.

I hope this information helps.

Good Luck

PapaJack