I have possesed an interesting penny for some time. I beleive this coin is plated and has little damage the coin itself has no odd features. What makes this interesting is there is what looks like a gold ring(or other similar metal)surrounding it. There is a very defined notch in the ring like it was machined in to make it removable. I have seen no references for this and have little knowledge of minting. please advise!
Howdy justmoe - Welcome to the Forum !! Based on your description it sounds like you have a coin that was used for jewelry. The ring around it is known as a bezel and was used to attach it to a chain or bracelet so it could be worn.
Since you say the coin was plated - I rather doubt it. The mint does sell coin jewelry items - but they usually only use gold or platinum coins. I've never heard of them using a cent. But it is quite common to find cents plated and used as jewelry, and it is always done by a second party.
