1974 Aluminum Lincoln Cent

I'm aware most of you already know about the experimental 1974 Lincoln Cent struck in aluminum, but I just read about it and thought there may be a few that aren't aware of it. I found it to be very interesting. Here's a wiki article on it:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1974_aluminum_cent

The 1974 aluminum cent was a one-cent coin proposed by the United States Mint in 1973. It was composed of an alloy of aluminum and trace metals, and intended to replace the predominantly copper-zinc cent due to the rising costs of coin production in the traditional bronze alloy.

1,571,167 were struck in anticipation of release, but none were released into circulation. Examples were passed out to US Congressmen in a bid to win favor in switching to the new alloy. When the proposed aluminum cent was rejected, the Mint recalled and destroyed the examples.

A few aluminum cents not returned to the Mint are believed to remain in existence. One example was donated to the Smithsonian Institution, while another was alleged to have been found by a US Capitol Police Officer. Since the United States Secret Service is tasked with the seizure of any specimens, the legality of the coins is in doubt.

And I see there is already a photo posted of this coin in the forum.


http://www.coincommunity.org/galler...cat=62&pos=6


There's always something new to learn about coin collecting.

Ken