Im quite sure that I found a Unique 1983-D 95 % copper penny in AU-58 condition. If you know the story, and how the last 1983 95 % copper penny sold for 15,000 dollars, and they stopped production of 95 % copper pennys in 1982, they never found a 1983-D one. I believe this to be historical news, and there is one problem. I did the ring test, it passed, but i do not have a gram scale on me to check for its authenticity. Any suggestions? Ill post pictures soon.
I'd say that if you are so sure it is 95% copper it would be worth it to spend a couple bucks to get a scale. Oh and I wouldn't be dropping it on anything to do the "ring test". Good way to damage it.
Unless your name is Jeff Young of Ohio, your cent is not unique....if it is a transitional error. http://numismaster.com/ta/numis/Article.jsp?ArticleId=26364
oh wow I never knew anyone found a 1983-D before. I think ill get a appraiser from a coin dealer. Good idea?
So one doesn't look foolish, wait until you can get an accurate weight in grams. If it is what you think, it won't change overnight, so take your time and get it weighed on a calibrated .01 gram resolution or better balance. Easiest to find in a decent chemistry classroom lab or a jewelry store, as the balances there are regularly calibrated and sealed.
Don't trust the ring test anyway. I have came to find out that if you want it to sound like copper it will. The brain is a tricky booger!:thumb:
YES!!!!!! I did the popsicle stick test and it passed! I tested it with a pre 82 penny and it does the same weight!!!!!!!!
I certainly wouldn't use that as a measure for something like this. I would get a proper scale that weighs to the nearest .01 gram.
I can tell just by looking at it that it's the newer zinc composition... I'd be willing to bet on it.
It should weigh 3.11g if it is indeed copper. If it is zinc it will weigh 2.5g. A scale is only the real way to figure out what it is (it's how I determine what my '82's are)
You have three options -Refuse to get a proper scale and continue to be whoopy and try to sell your possibly super rare fake find -Get a scale, measure it, and have your hopes and dreames shattered -Give it to me. Postage for a penny isn't very much, and it'll save yourself from the heartache knowing that I'll buy a scale and find the result. Obviously I won't tell you of the result