Pennies made pre 1982 are nearly pure copper. Mid 1982 is when they changed metal composition. Sound on falling can tell a lot once you're experienced.
I can't tell the difference between the sound of a copper penny falling from a copper coated zinc penny falling, I wait until they hit the hard surface they land on first, then I can tell the difference.
Mr H. If this is your project, feel free to contact me off-line tomorrow.
We have a friend that specializes in coins and such; he's helped a few of us and is highly trust worthy.
"The Neatest Little Shop" is an antique consignment store in Glen Burnie on 648 near the courthouse. The owner is a coin and PM dealer. I have bought from and traded with him for several years.
Also older quarters, half dollars and silver dollars were silver. Quarters changed to copper core in 65 along with the dimes.
Older pennies were almost pure copper. They are worth more as scrap copper than their face value.
Yes... fishcrow is the Missus.
We can talk about it at Tim's event Sunday??!
I can only recommend guys in my area (Towson). Most coin dealers will be happy to give it a once-over and give you a general assessment. You definitely want a coin guy, not a cash for gold guy or an auctioneer to go through it.
1964 and lower dimes and quarters are mostly silver, and worth at least spot... well above face value even if collector value is neglible. The chances of you having anything really valuable (aka rare) in a casual collection is pretty low. If it's not sleeved and or marked it's probably not anything special. If you see anything in impeccable condition, separate it as those command the best prices even among more common coins.