From: dave@wtc.k12.mn.us
Location: minnesota
Date: 4/20/00
Time: 11:51:21 AM
The current U.S pennies come in two different weights. Pennies prior to 1983 are 3.1 grams; those after 1983 are 2.5 grams. There are 454 grams per pound. This equates to approximately 146 per pound for pre 1983 pennies & 182 pennies per pound for post 1983 pennies. Therefore, the better value per pound would be with the pre 1983 pennies.
We once had a 3 gallon glass (heaven forbid) pickle jar full of pennies. We didn't weigh the pennies, but, as I recall, there were over $30 worth in there. We didn't dare lift the jar when it was full for fear the bottom would fall out. Perhaps we should have used a crock. The bottoms of most crocks are probably more durable than the bottoms of most pickle jars unless you use the crocks for firewood and just dump the logs in. In that case, a crock, once used for dumped in firewood is probably less valuable that the pennies the same crock would hold.
Now you know the answer to the pennyriddle, but are probably still wondering what all that has to do with pottery.