1 of 6

Write now Article Tools

Are Pennies Worth the Same as Before

Data Table-
Year Grams Year Grams Year Grams Year Grams Year Grams
2005 2.5 1995 2.5 1985 2.53 1975 3.09 1965 3.1
2004 2.52 1994 2.5 1984 2.52 1974 3.12 1964 3.12
2003 2.5 1993 2.54 1983 2.52 1973 3.13 1963 3.16
2002 2.5 1992 2.55 1982 3.11 1972 3.11 1962 3.15
2001 2.49 1991 2.52 1981 3.09 1971 3.09 1961 3.04
2000 2.5 1990 2.5 1980 3.08 1970 3.09 1960 3.05

1999 2.5 1989 2.47 1979 3.11 1969 3.11 1959 3.05
1998 2.5 1988 2.5 1978 3.06 1968 3.16
1997 2.52 1987 2.5 1977 3.05 1967 3.09
1996 2.5 1986 2.52 1976 3.08 1966 3.14

The Bureau of the Mint changed the composition of the penny after 1982. The average mass of an old penny is around 3.1 grams and the new one is around 2.5 grams. The penny used to be made of primarily copper but now its made of primarily zinc.

We found out that the penny changed from primarily copper to primarily zinc. We also found out that it changed after year 1982. So the new penny first came out in 1983. While researching I also found out that the Mint is now losing money by making the penny. About two years ago this changed. It used to be that making it would be less than it was worth so they were making money. But now they are losing some money every time they make a penny. But that doesn't really matter because they are making money on everything else they make. Mostly that $100 bill!

Learn more about this author, Seymore Booties.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Pennies are worth as much as they once were?
We want to hear your view. Write now!