What is Coin Cladding?

Coin cladding refers to clad coins--those with a copper core and nickel layers on either side. A look at the edge reveals this "sandwich" look, as opposed to silver coins which have a uniform color.

Color of a Clad Coin

Clad coins are silvery nickel in color, even though a large percentage of the composition is copper. Clad coins were produced to replace silver coins in circulation.

Why Coins are "Clad"

Coins are clad because metal is expensive. If the government had to make silver coins, the value of the metal would far exceed the face value of the coins.

United States Clad Coins

Some United States clad coins include Washington quarters and Roosevelt dimes dated after 1964, Kennedy half dollars, Eisenhower and Anthony dollars and modern commemorative half dollar coins.

Clad Coins Value

Clad coins are typically found in pocket change--they are common and do not contain any precious metal. Clad coins are often called copper-nickel.

Finding Clad Coins

You can find clad coins by looking at pocket change. A local coin dealer may be able to help you find a coin for your date set that you just haven't been able to locate.

References

• Coin World
• American Numismatic Association