Coin Glossary

You can find most popular coin collecting phrases in this coin glossary.

Coin Glossary

Z

zinc - cheap metal used to mint coins. It was used from 1982 tom int US 1 cent penny as copper-plated zinc, 97.5% zinc. Also used in combination with steel, as with zinc plated steel cent of 1943, which was minted due to shortages of copper during WII and in brass coins, which look similar to gold. Modern US 1 dollar coins are made from brass (alloy of copper and zinc) and nickel to immitate gold.

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Coin Collecting News
07/02/2025
An Oral History of the Fernet Coin: The Secret Handshake of the Bar World
For bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts, Fernet Branca has developed a cult following, with pours dubbed the “bartender’s handshake.” Branded coins have made the ritual even more exclusive. Edoardo ... more info

06/30/2025
Do you have a rare penny in your coin jar? Here's what the experts say
You might think the end of penny production would make the coins rare and valuable, but not so fast, warned John Haas, owner of Newark Coin and Jewelry. "Really, the only pennies we see around here ... more info

07/02/2025
August sales date for American Liberty gold coin, silver medal
Featuring a sunflower design, the Proof 2025-W American Liberty High Relief 1-ounce .9999 fine gold $100 coin and 1-ounce .999 fine silver medal will go on sale in August. more info