i have a bunch of AU-BU 1943 steel pennies from all 3 mints that seem to have a very nice blueish tone. is that the norm for these coins??? it really make them very striking. i tried to scan some in but they dont truly give you the same effect as seeming them in person. any help would be greatly appreciated.
If they look anything like these "blues" then they may have been replated, reprocessed, etc.. Another comparison between "good" and "bad".
As zinc oxidizes it does take on a bluish white color so an Unc steel cent will often have a blue tint to it.
Zinc deteriorates rather quickly, so if the coins look bright and shiny that's your first clue. Sometimes the surface will a bit rough, sometimes the details will be mushy from the plating.
