September 1992
2p Coin
| First Issued | 15 February 1971 |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 25.9mm |
| Weight | 7.12g |
| Thickness | Bronze: 1.85mm Copper-plated steel: 2.03mm |
| Composition | Bronze (97% copper, 2.5% zinc, 0.5% tin) – until September 1992 Copper-plated steel – since September 1992, except in 1998 when the 2p was made in both alloys |
Why are some copper coins magnetic?
Copper-plated coins are attracted to magnets because of the iron content of the steel core, whereas bronze coins are not magnetic. In 1998, 2p coins were struck in both copper-plated steel and bronze.
When did coins stop being magnetic?
Since 1992, coins have been made with steel, which is magnetic. (Pre-1992 coins are made out of bronze, which will not attract.)
Why is a 20p coin not magnetic?
As a result of rising prices of base metals, from 1992 onwards the composition of the coins changed to copper plated steel. Both compositions are the same weight, diameter and design, meaning that they circulate together with no noticeable differences – other than the fact that coins with a steel core are magnetic.
Why are some coins magnetic and some not?
The coating uses far less copper than a bronze composition, and yet the coins look very much the same. It is the iron in the steel which, of course, makes the coins magnetic. For collectors, however, there is an interesting interlude here.
When was copper first used as a currency?
Copper has been used to make coins for currency since about 600BC – see The Timeline of Copper. The ancient Romans recognised the value of this material and used a wide variety of copper coins.
Can you pick up a copper penny with a magnet?
So the short answer is “No, copper isn’t magnetic.”. This can quickly be tested by trying to pick up a penny with a magnet.
Are there any 1p coins that are magnetic?
Along with the Bronze coins, 254 million steel 1ps were struck in 1992 – which would make spotting them a problem, except for one thing. “As a result of their steel core, copper-plated steel 1p coins are magnetic,” the Royal Mint museum explains. So if you find a 1992 1p, and can’t pick it up with a magnet, you’re on to a winner.
