Lincoln Cents

Brief Description

A very heavily corroded US penny showing 'zinc rot'. The copper plating has bubbled and flaked away, exposing the dark grey zinc core which has oxidized into a reddish-brown crust.

Historical Significance

Since 1982, US pennies have been made primarily of zinc due to the rising cost of copper. When the thin copper layer is breached, the zinc core reacts with moisture, leading to the rapid deterioration seen in this specimen.

Estimated Value

Zero (Face value of 1 cent, though essentially worthless in this damaged condition)

Care Instructions

This coin is suffering from advanced environmental damage. To prevent further decay of other coins, it should be kept dry and separate from a clean collection. Avoid cleaning with acids as it will dissolve the remaining zinc core.

Created At: 2026-02-14T05:05:46.219907