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It is mostly a matter of economics.
The old traditional metals used to make coins such as gold, silver and copper, were very expensive, relatively soft and not very durable with continuous use and handling.
These days, the coinage of most countries is made from the cheapest and most durable materials, which usually means an alloy of some description.
Copper-zinc or copper-aluminium is a popular alloy for many gold coloured coins.
Copper-nickel is a popular alloy for many silver coloured coins.
Steel electro-plated with another metal is popular for small denomination coins.
Most, if not all coins in circulation today, are a "token" coinage, that is, the coin has a value inscribed on it, the value is not based on the metal it is made from.
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Are pound coins made with real gold?
No, they are made from an alloy of nickel and brass.
What coins have iron oxide?
Only those coins made from iron or an iron alloy, and that are rusty.
What kind of metal is a 1981 Eire 50 Pence coin made from?
All Eire (Irish) 50 Pence coins were made from a copper-nickel alloy.
Is a 1961 British Halfcrown made from silver?
Until 1919, the Halfcrown coin was made from 92.5% silver. From 1920 to 1946, the Halfcrown coin was made from 50% silver. From 1947 to their last minting in 1970, the Halfcrown coin was made from a copper and nickel alloy.
Why is the British pound coin made from those metals?
The British Pound coin, along with other British coins, is made from a nickel brass alloy which is a relatively cheap and durable alloy.
What is a 1949 British Sixpence made from?
All British "silver" coins from 1947 onwards were made from a copper nickel alloy.
What is a 1947 British Shilling made from?
All British "silver" coins from 1947 onwards were made from a copper nickel alloy.
Which series of coins are presently in use?
Today in 2012 the series of coin that we presently use is the contemporary coins where coins are made up of copper+nickel (cupro-nickel alloy).
Was the Irish Punt made from silver?
No. All circulating Eire Punts (One Pound coins) were made from a copper-nickel alloy.
Did the US produce brass coins?
Except for the current series of $1 coins, no. The closest is the bronze alloy used in cents from 1864 to 1942 and 1944 to 1982. Sacajawea and Presidential dollars are made from a special alloy that's a combination of brass and manganese.
What is the silver content of New Zealand pre decimal coins?
All New Zealand silver coins from 1933 to 1946 had a silver content of 50%. From 1947 onwards, all New Zealand "silver" coins were made from a copper-nickel alloy.
Are quarters made out of iron?
The outside is an alloy of 75% copper and 25% nickel, with pure copper in the center. Including the core, the coins are about 91.7% copper and 8.3% nickel.
