What are current circulating coins made from?
Quarters and dimes are composed of cupro-nickel clad, with a pure copper core, and an outer layer of a 75 percent copper, 25 percent nickel alloy. Nickels are made from the same 75-25 alloy, and the cent, once a copper coin, is now composed of copper plated zinc. These cents are less expensive for the Mint to manufacture, and at 2.5 grams each, weigh about 20% less than the cent previously minted of 95 percent copper and 5 percent zinc, which weighed 3.11 grams.
Related Questions
- What happenned to Manila Mint in Philippines? Is Manila Mint still produce circulating coins and commemorative coins for Philippines Today?
- Can I purchase brand new circulating coins featuring the standard designs of our circulating coins (5c to $2) from the Mint?
- Have any circulating U.S. coins been issued prior to the year of their date?
