Concerning Big Bucks,

Zinc Pennies And Silver Dollars From Carson City

November 13, 1988|By Roger Boye.

Here are answers to more questions about coins and paper money.

Q-We`d like to sell eight Carson City silver dollars we bought from the federal government in 1974. Would it be better to leave the coins in their plastic cases or take them out? Do you think we`d make a profit? The years range from 1882 to 1893.

L. B., Chicago

A-Some dealers will pay a premium for ``CC dollars`` that still are in the official government holders. You should net at least a modest profit on your coins, depending in part on their condition. Almost all the dates have gone up in value during the past 14 years, some handsomely.

Q-We found an old $1 silver certificate among my father`s possessions. But it`s much larger than the money we use today. Does that mean it`s counterfeit?

H. G., Itasca

A-No. Before 1929, Uncle Sam issued ``greenbacks`` that were 1/4 inches longer and 1/2 inch wider than today`s currency. The reduction was made to save on production costs, among other things.

Q-How could I determine if my 1982 pennies contain copper or just copper- plated zinc? The government made both types in 1982; they look the same to me.

T. Y., Hammond, Ind.

A-Copper Lincolns weigh 25 percent more than their newer zinc cousins

(1982 was the changeover year). You could decipher each coin in your hoard by using a sensitive scale or even a crudely constructed balance.