I have a 1955 wheat penny that is made of an almost gold like metal it's very shiny and is in good condition it has no mint mark Any ideas on what it may be? It doesn't look like it's been coated
The most often case is a formation of brass on the bronze cent by the following chemistry experiment that is widely done in middle and high school chemistry classes. As you read, you can also make silver cents. Welcome to the forum ! http://chemistry.about.com/od/chemistryhowtoguide/a/goldsilverpenny.htm
It looks more to me like a proof coin or one that has been highly polished. Without a better picture, it is hard to tell for sure.
Until 1968, all proofs were made in Philadelphia with no mint mark (although there are a couple unusual exceptions).
