1941 S planchet

[Sam1966]

This coin appears to be silver, but looks gold through a microscope. 3.08 grams. Found this coin in a roll of coins bought off of eBay, had indian heads up to 1940s old roll from gas station back in the 40's and 50s supposedly.

[mustbebob]

Lighting will change how a coin looks...especially under a scope. As far as this coin goes. we need a weight. Can you get that for us? We can go from there but there could be plating or chemical baths that also change the color of a coin.

[Sam1966]

It is 3.08 grams. The coin is in excellent condition, probably MS63, the surface has no apparent post mint damage or alterations. The coin is a soft metal, took a knife and put a small nic on the back by the time. The metal rolled, didn't scratch like copper or brass would, maybe gold?

[Sam1966]

Nic on the back by the rim.

[jcuve]

The most probable explanation is it was plated later. It is slightly above weight as opposed to being an altogether different weight. It has been common for people who learn electroplating to experiment with coins. Coins are also painted, and coated with mercury.

[Sam1966]

It is not plated or a school experiment I have a few silver, gold and zinc that are this is not.

[jcuve]

Let's be objective. At 3.08 grams it is slightly above weight instead of an altogether different weight (which is what would happen if it was struck on the wrong metal type), that fact alone strongly suggests that it was plated.

I have seen a lot of coins plated that often do not look plated. This includes 1943 steel Lincolns that were notoriously re-plated to hide rust. Some examples would fool most collectors.

When we have the examination team assembled, you can sent it in.