For the Record (2)

The Bureau of the Mint is proposing to make pennies out of a new zinc- based alloy instead of the traditional copper-based metal amalgam. The new pennies would be manufactured starting in May, with the coin being phased into public use starting July 1. The purpose is to produce a coin less costly and lighter in weight than the copper-based pennies. Officials expect the zinc coins to keep the brown appearance of the current penny.