The Lincoln Steel Cent, minted for just one year in 1943, is one of the most iconic coins in U.S. history. Struck during World War II as a cost-saving measure, these cents were made of steel coated with zinc to conserve copper for wartime needs. Their unique appearance and historical significance make them a favorite among collectors. However, their distinctiveness has also made them a target for counterfeiters. Among the most common issues in this category are reprocessed steel cents, which are altered or refinished to appear as though they are in mint condition.
What Are Reprocessed Steel Cents?
Reprocessed steel cents are authentic 1943 steel pennies that have been refinished with a new layer of zinc or another metal to mimic their original luster. While these coins were initially genuine, their refinishing process removes their numismatic value as original coins and transforms them into novelty items.
Reprocessing is typically done to make worn, rusty, or tarnished coins appear as though they are freshly minted. These altered coins often end up in coin collections, sold to unsuspecting buyers who believe they are acquiring a mint-condition piece.
How to Identify a Reprocessed Steel Cent
Detecting reprocessed steel cents requires careful examination of the coin’s surface, edges, and overall appearance. Here are the key indicators:
- Excessive Luster: Original steel cents exhibit a subtle, frosted luster, not the overly bright or mirror-like shine seen in reprocessed coins. A suspiciously gleaming coin is likely refinished.
- Surface Imperfections: Reprocessed coins often show signs of over-polishing, with details on Lincoln’s portrait or the wheat stalks appearing softened or less defined. This is a result of the recoating process.
- Edge Inspection: The edges of reprocessed coins frequently reveal inconsistencies. On an original coin, the edges should display a uniform appearance. On a reprocessed cent, you might notice pooling of the new coating material or uneven application.
- Magnetic Properties: Since genuine steel cents are magnetic, reprocessed examples should retain this property. However, coins with thick recoating may exhibit weaker magnetic responses.
- Weight Differences: The recoating process can slightly alter the weight of the coin. A steel cent should weigh 2.7 grams. If the coin’s weight varies significantly, it may have been altered.
Why Reprocessed Cents Are Problematic
While reprocessed steel cents aren’t counterfeit in the strictest sense, as they originate from genuine coins, they are often misrepresented in the marketplace. Sellers may market them as uncirculated or “mint condition,” misleading buyers into paying premium prices for coins that have been altered and lack original value.
For collectors, this presents a dilemma: while reprocessed coins can make visually appealing additions to a collection, their numismatic value is negligible compared to an untouched, original example.
Protecting Yourself from Purchasing Reprocessed Steel Cents
To avoid purchasing a reprocessed steel cent, follow these tips:
- Buy from reputable dealers or auction houses with a solid return policy.
- Have the coin authenticated and graded by a professional third-party grading service like PCGS or NGC.
- Educate yourself on the characteristics of genuine steel cents, such as weight, luster, and edge detail.
FAQs
1. What is a reprocessed steel cent?
A reprocessed steel cent is a genuine 1943 steel penny that has been refinished or recoated with a new layer of zinc or other metals to appear mint-condition, reducing its numismatic value.
2. How can I tell if a steel cent has been reprocessed?
Look for excessive luster, softened details, uneven edges, or slight weight differences. Reprocessed coins often appear overly shiny compared to original steel cents.
3. Are reprocessed steel cents valuable?
While they can be visually appealing, reprocessed steel cents hold little numismatic value and are typically considered novelty items rather than collectible coins.