Expert: PAPAJACK - 8/12/2007

Question
QUESTION: Hi there
I was looking in my old Penny box when i saw that i have a penny that's blank on two side. I have no clue what it is can you explain this if there where ever any copper blanks cents and there Value.
Thank's

ANSWER: Hello Mohamed,          

If the blank is 2.50 grams or 3.11 grams and 19 mm in diameter it is likely a one cent blank. Check to see if the edge is smooth and it has a raised rim like a normal cent.
This Cent blank getting out of the mint is not unheard of. It fits through all the tests and into the bags for delivery.
I see them at coin shows selling from 1 to 4 dollars. There are plenty of copper and copper colored slugs around as well so check the specifications carefully. Also all cents made since 1982 are made of Zinc with only copper plating, these weigh 2.50 grams. you would be able to scratch the edge of the coin and see tha zinc

Please remember to rate this answer at the bottom of this page. And check the nomination box on the rating page below any comments you may have.

Thank You and Good Luck



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the good tip on knowing my coin, I did what you said and the coin is 19mm in diameter ok thats one but i dont have a precision Digital scale I will try to get one in four or five days, The other thing is that, I scratched the edge of the coin and I did not see zinc. But i Don't know if i have missed something or not i just dont know what im seeing. I have very very good pic of the coin from the edge of the coin and on the back sides, I can send them to you if you would like to Examine Them. Your time and dedication Is sincerely appreciated.
Thank you.
M.a.ender
ANSWER: Hello again Mohamed,    

You’re not missing anything when you are able to weigh the piece you will find if it is just a washer (with no hole) or if it could be a cent blank.
The US Cents made before 1982 are 3.11 grams since they are 95% copper all the way through. It is the cents made after 1982 that weigh 2.50 grams and are 97% zinc with a copper coating.

If you do find it to be the proper weight you can write me back with your approximate location (the nearest large city), some Postal ZIP Codes and Telephone area codes for your area, and I will get you names of Professional American Numismatic Association member/dealers, In your area. (If you don't trust a local dealer)
All ANA members and dealers are bound by our "Code of Ethics." In general, coin dealers are also involved with numismatic clubs and will be acquainted with other collectors in the area. Most will be happy to refer you to someone who specializes in the type of coins in the collection.

Please remember to rate this answer at the bottom of this page. And check the nomination box on the rating page below any comments you may have.

Thank You and Good Luck


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi there Papajack
I Got the precision Digital scale and I weighed the blank coin and it hits 2.50 grams right on the Spot.

Answer
Hello again Mohamed,          

Good news, It may not get you more than five dollars but if you want to sell it or authenticate it with a local dealer I can help. Can you give me your approximate location (the nearest large city) and some Postal ZIP Codes near you. I will get you names of Professional American Numismatic Association member/dealers, In your area. (If you don't trust a local dealer)
All ANA members and dealers are bound by our "Code of Ethics." In general, coin dealers are also involved with numismatic clubs and will be acquainted with other collectors in the area. Most will be happy to refer you to someone who specializes in the type of coins in the collection.

Thank You and Good Luck

PapaJack