Coin and Paper Money Collecting/1983 penny question

Advertisement


Question
Hi,
I have a 1983 penny that is larger than a normal penny, almost the size of a nickel. It is a dark silver color. Any ideas about it? Thanks in advance!
Kathleen

Answer
Hi Kathleen,
This could be any number of things.  It could be a cent that was struck without the collar around it, hence the coin spreads out but would be thinner than a normal cent.  It could be a cent struck on a nickel blank, or a foreign coin blank for that matter.
The color could be explained by the fact that in 1983, cents were zinc and only coated with copper.  Maybe the copper plating was not applied.
I suggest you have the coin physically inspected by a professional.  But do not sell it.  You would be better off having the coin certified by PCGS or NGC, then selling it.
Regards
Joe Hylas

Coin and Paper Money Collecting

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


Joe Hylas

Expertise

Numismatic professional with over 30 years experience can answer your questions about US coins, their values, how best to sell them and where to buy them. Interested in starting a collection? Find out which areas are undervalued and how to acquire those coins at the best price.

Experience

Ex-Head Precious Metals trader for Deak-Perera International with 42 offices worldwide. Industry experience since 1978. Has worked co-operatively with US Mint, Royal Canadian Mint, Austrian Mint, Chamber of Mines of South Africa, World Gold Council and Platinum Guild International. Professioanl numismatist specializing in US Coins. Always buying collections, will travel if size of collection warrants. Website: www.AllCoins.US

Organizations
PCGS, NGC, Rotary

Publications
Physician's Money Digest

Education/Credentials
Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration

Awards and Honors
Paul Harris Fellow

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.