Expert: Brad Swain - 11/14/2009

Question
If a coin was made out of both copper and silver, would it be more durable? How much would it be worth?

Answer
Hi Ava, silver coins often have copper alloyed with it. An alloy is stronger than the individual metals.
Mexican 1 Peso coins minted 1957-67 were only 10% silver. The more copper the more likely the originally silver looking coin will turn a gray or brown color over time with a lot of wear but the cheaper it is to produce.
Most countries have used 50% to 90% silver in their alloys. The more silver the higher quality and the better the coin will look.  
You might also try a library for a copy of the Standard Catalog of World Coins for pictures, values and lots more interesting info.
Brad