U.S. Coins Quiz: Level I
What coin is worth "two bits"?
- In the early days of U.S. money, the main coin was the Spanish dollar, which was sometimes cut (like a pie) into eight "bits." Each bit was worth 12 1/2 cents. Therefore, the American quarter dollar is said to be worth "two bits."
About how long do coins last when they are in regular use?
- Circulating coins last about 25 years. Paper bills, however, last an average of only about 18 months.
Which of the following has never been issued as a U.S. coin?
- The half-cent was issued from 1793 to 1857, and the twenty-cent piece was issued from 1875 to 1878. There has never been a four-cent piece, though a two-cent piece (1864-1873) and a three-cent piece (1851-1873, 1865-1889) are among discontinued U.S. coins.
What is the main metal used in making pennies?
- During the last 500 years, there have been six different recipes for making pennies. The first ones were large coins made of pure copper. Today's pennies are mostly zinc, though they are plated with copper.
In relation to the "heads" side of a coin, the "tails" side is:
- The image on the reverse ("tails" side) of a U.S. coin always appears upside down. No one is sure how or why this practice began, but it has been continued by tradition for more than two centuries.
Which of the following phrases does not appear on all U.S. coins?
- "Legal tender" appears on bills, not coins.
Which of these coins does not have an inscription saying how many cents it is worth?
- Although words on the coins say that the penny is worth "one cent" and the nickel is worth "five cents," the dime simply says that it is worth "one dime."
What is the correct term for a penny?
- "One-cent piece" is actually the correct term, but even government documents sometimes use the term "penny" because it is the most widespread.
What do you call a coin collector?
- A numismatist collects coins. A philatelist collects stamps, while a vecturist collects subway tokens. For more collecting names, click here.
Who is on the half-dollar coin?
- Kennedy has appeared on the half-dollar since 1964. Eisenhower appeared on the dollar coin from 1971 to 1978. Roosevelt appears on the dime.
