Expert: PAPAJACK - 4/6/2008

Question
I saw the below question and answer as I was browsing the website and it reminded me of a 1969 D silver colored cent that I have.  While I completely understand the answer given to Edward, I am still confused as to why this 1969 D cent is silver in color as its composition is completely different than that of Edward's 2005 cent and there is no plating to strip away.  Nor is there any build up of any plating material, in fact the strike is quite sharp.  The coin is not dull, lots of luster and shine. Most definitely not a dime planchet.  Unfortunately I have not weighed the coin but the diameter matches perfectly to other cents.  Any ideas?   
I would certainly appreciate an answer.
Thanks!
John

Question
Hello, I have what appears to be a brand new 2005 penny from the Denver mint. However, it is silver colored. Is this an error by the mint? I got the coin quite a while ago, but I had kept it until now.  

Answer
Hello Edward,   
I see these from time to time. Most of the time it's just a novelty or collectors item. The US Mint did not strike it like this.

For testing, first check the specifications on the coin. 2.50 grams and 19mm round diameter. If it is anything else and we don’t have a cent blank used here.

If the coin is the correct size and within the weight tolerances of a normal cent there are a few possibilities.

It may be polished after the coin left the mint. With certain polishing mediums a silver look can be achieved. I have even seen cents cleaned in silver cleaners that change their color to silverish hues.

Or it was more probably plated or been in a nickel or chrome wash. Copper takes plating well but if you magnify the (fillet’s) area where the raised lettering is you will find a build-up of the plating material.

Things like this are worthless to true coin collectors. Most coin shops and all coin Shows Large or small will have people knowledgeable enough to identify this piece for you at no charge.

Please remember to go to the experts site to rate this answer. And check the nomination box on the rating page below any comments you may have.

Thank You and Good Luck

PapaJack


Answer
Hello John,                           

This coins is probably plated. It may be plated in silver, chrome or nickel or another metal, but to be sure someone will have to look at your coin for confirmation.

If you want you can write me again and give me the nearest large Cities, some postal zip codes and telephone area codes I will refer you to an expert in your area.

Thank You and Good Luck