In 1909 to 1981 pennies were 95% copper from 1983 to present are 97.5% zinc in 1982 they made both kinds.
I forgot to note that Buffalo Nickels do not contain silver....... But they are collectable and worth keeping......
I
also forgot to note that a silver nickel may have a P, D, or S and
still be silver, but only if the Mintmark is above the Building on the
Rear.......
Silver nickels are fun to collect, and you can
usually buy them under the melt value, which makes them a great choice
for young collectors. Silver nickels contain $2.12 each worth of Silver
on todays closing price on Fri, Apr. 1st, 2011.
If you have any coin questions, let me know...