I found a nickel that appears to be copper. It's 1972 and has a D marking at the bottom. It looks pretty decent condition (not like a parking lot nickel or anything). It appears to be really dark brown. I compared it to a few other older Pennies I have and the brown is definitely darker than copper. I did some google searching and can't find a whole lot. I've heard some mention that it can be copper-clad ? I didn't see too much more about it though. Does anyone know what I have here?
A 1972 nickel is made of n alloy of 75% copper and 25% nickel. The copper in any nickel will react to environmental conditions that will change the color. Being submerged in water or exposed to chemicals or fire will cause the copper in a nickel to darken. You should weigh your coin. It should weigh 5.0 grams +/- 0.1 grams. Any deviation from this standard weight should be investigated further. If you don't have access to a scale, take the coin to a coin dealer. If it is a genuine error, you will get an offer to buy. It would have a retail value of $250.
