I came across this 1974 cent today in a roll and couldn't believe the condition of this one, considering the year. I just thought it was gorgeous. Why does it seem like there are 2 different types plating for this year?
There are not two different types of plating. In fact, these coins are not plated at all. All Lincoln Cents made prior to 1982 were made from a brass alloy. The Cents made post-1982 were copper-plated zinc coins. These just have a different patina than the coins that were plated. I hope that helps.
That is actually pretty much just an average circulated 74. As stated above NOT plated, 95% copper with 5% combo of Tin and Zinc composition!! Also 1982 cents started out being minted at that composition then the Government changed them to copper plated zinc later that year.
