When Did They Stop Using Copper For Pennies - Lincoln did appear on the penny until 1909, and the 95% copper lincoln memorial pennies were not introduced until 1959. The first 95% copper lincoln memorial pennies were. Midway through 1982, the cent switched to copper plated zinc. However a coin dated 1982 could either be 95% copper or copper. Due to rising copper prices, the composition of the penny was changed in 1983 to a zinc core with a copper plating. As a result, the united states mint made a crucial decision. In 1944, with copper shortages ended, the u. s. Mint returned to making pennies from copper alloy. However, instead of using pure copper, the coins were struck in an alloy.
Lincoln did appear on the penny until 1909, and the 95% copper lincoln memorial pennies were not introduced until 1959. The first 95% copper lincoln memorial pennies were. Midway through 1982, the cent switched to copper plated zinc. However a coin dated 1982 could either be 95% copper or copper. Due to rising copper prices, the composition of the penny was changed in 1983 to a zinc core with a copper plating.