State Quarters Composed Of Odd Alloy

CoinWorld - This 1999-P New Jersey quarter dollar was struck on an experimental planchet with a yellow-gold color similar to that of a Sacagawea dollar. The design rim failed to strike up along part of the coin's circumference and peripheral elements show significant metal flow.

Coins struck on experimental planchets provide a fascinating window into the U.S. Mint's occasional forays into alternative metal compositions. Famous recent examples include 1974-dated Lincoln cents struck on aluminum and bronze-clad steel planchets.

Closer to the present we have, according to error dealer Mike Byers, an estimated 20 State Quarter dollars, six to seven Anthony dollars, and one Sacagawea dollar struck on experimental planchets. But unlike the 1974 cents, there is lingering uncertainty over whether the strikes or the planchets were authorized by Mint authorities. Let's focus on the quarter dollars, where sample size and diversity of appearance is greatest.

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