The copper plating is so thin, it split at a stress point, (The D, the highest point on the coin) instead of stretching. Once it split, the zinc started oxidizing. Now it is full blown Zinc Rot. They started making pennies out of zinc in mid 1982 because they are cheaper. To ease the shock to the general public, they copper-plated them. They did succeed in making cheap pennies - zinc is not a suitable material for a durable coin. They are so cheap, now they must make more and more. They might want to start using aluminum.
When the coin was struck the, the plating was split. When air reached the zinc underneath, the zinc started to rot leaving a raised area in that location. This expanded gave it more oxygen, feeding the zinc rot. and it continues to breakdown. Spend it before it is too late and the plating is all that is left of what was a coin. (time will continue to the goal)
Disclaimer: While a tremendous amount of effort goes into ensuring the accuracy of the information contained in this site, Coin Community assumes no liability for errors. Copyright 2005 - 2026 Coin Community Family- all rights reserved worldwide. Use of any images or content on this website without prior written permission of Coin Community or the original lender is strictly prohibited. Contact Us | Advertise Here | Privacy Policy / Terms of Use