Coin and Paper Money Collecting/pre-1982 zinc pennies?

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Expert: - 5/24/2010


Question
In reference to a prior question,
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Coin-Collecting-2297/penny-7.htm

I have personally seen at least 4 1976 Denver mint pennies that are a white metal inside(one of the 4 was cut in half), and a reddish/coppery plating on the surface which clearly wears to grey on the high points quickly. They appear genuine and are well struck.

Could they be part of a test-batch of pre-1982 zinc pennies?

(Note:  This was asked of Dan Moore but he advised it was outside his expertise.)

Answer
Hi Vic,

No cutting required.  First off - forget about the color.  At first all you need is a pocket digital scale or go down to your local jeweler or coin dealer and get a weight in grams.  Use a cent that is in tact.  If it's weight is approx 3.1 grams - its copper.  If it's weight is 2.5 grams it is most likely made of zinc.  This assumes no tampering.  If you find 1976 Cent that has not been altered in any way and its weight is 2.5 grams - them you may have something.  Please report back on the weight.

Thanks and good luck, Troy

Coin and Paper Money Collecting

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Troy Thoreson

Expertise

Please, no error coin questions unless your coin is dated 1955 or before. I can answer questions regarding all U.S. Coins, Gold & Silver bullion, including regular mint and proof issue coins and currency. Since 2009, I have been contributing to the Red Book, "A Guide Book of United States Coins", by R.S. Yeoman along with two other publications. I currently run two coin shops in California.

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I have over 30 years experience in Numismatics. I own two coin shops and have examined thousands of coins over the years. Please allow up to 2 business days for an answer. This is a free service and I am happy to answer questions - but please be patient and understanding of my time.

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My company is an authorized P.C.G.S. and N.G.C. dealer. I am a Life Member of the American Numismatic Association and California State Numismatic Association. We are also an authorized Whites Metal Detector dealership.

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I have written articles for Coin World and the Rare Coin Market Report.

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I have a certificate of completion from the American Numismatic Association on how to detect counterfeit U.S. Gold Coins and how to Grade U.S. Coins along with other certifications. I have a Bachelor of Science in Business with a concentration in Accounting and a minor in Computer Information Systems.

Awards and Honors
I am listed as a contributor to the Red Book, "A Guide Book of United States Coins", the Red Book, by R.S. Yeoman. I have been contributing to the Red Book since 2009. I also contribute to the Blue Book and the new Professional edition Red Book. I have many other awards and honors.

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My past consulting clients included eBay, Inc., Yahoo! Auctions, and the United States Postal Service. I have many other great customers and help all no matter their level of collecting.

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