Historical Figures

How much is 1959 to 1982 penny worth in weight?

Based on the metal composition of pennies minted during those years:

- Before 1982, pennies were minted with 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc.

- After 1982, pennies contain 97.5% zinc and 2.5% copper.

Using the prices of these metals for reference:

- as of 2019, copper is $2.57/lb.

- zinc is priced at $1.09/lb

Then, calculating their weights, each pre and post-1982 penny weighs:

- Pre 1982: 3.11 grams / 0.0068 lbs

- 1982 and onward: 2.50 grams / 0.0055 lbs

With these calculations, the value in weight of pennies, by era, would be:

- Pre 1982: $0.017 (1.7 cents) per coin

- 1982 and onward: $0.006 (0.6 cents) per coin