Steel Penny?

[kekkie5 0]

I have got this penny dated 1990 its silver in color and is magnetic is it an error at the mint or someone messed about with and I read steel pennies did come in till 1992?

[Chris Perkins 228]

I like that and the fact that it pre-dates the copper plated steel coins. It's what's known as an off-metal strike, i.e. the wrong metal for the coin it should be. Whether an error, or someone trying something out at the mint, or passing the time, we'll never know for sure.

I suppose the most likely explanation is that is was some kind of experiment relating to the forthcoming copper plated steel coins, assuming they already had that idea floating around in 1990 (the historical copper price info for 1990 to 1992 may help answer that).

It's great that you've clearly kept it from new and it is therefore still in very good condition. There isn't a massive following for off-metal decimals but It's certainly worth a few pounds due to the condition I'd say. I'd be pleased to buy it.

[Rob 3,152]

Could be nickel rather than steel using a blank for a completely different currency. What is the weight?

[Chris Perkins 228]

To tell the difference, from memory nickel is sort of wishy-washy magnetic I think. Steel on the other hand really sticks to a magnet and takes a bit more persuasion to remove.

[VickySilver 848]

I have a couple that are either chrome or vanadium plated (I think) - I suppose post minting....