strange pennies...

[Gridwalker306]

I found these pennies along with some nice silver and other old goodies. They were in an old container that belonged to my wife's grandmother. The first one looks like it might be gold plated?? The second one looks almost like the copper colour is wearing off, and the underneath looks like aluminum or something. Got any ideas?

 

[DigginThePast]

The first coin looks to have been part of a science experiment where you can change the color of a penny, there are several youtube videos showing how to do it.

The second coin appears to have the thin copper coating worn off in areas revealing the zinc core. Some 1982 and all post 1982 US One Cent coins are copper plated zinc.

 

[Gridwalker306]

Thanks for the info!