Base Metals

A base metal is a common and inexpensive metal, as opposed to a precious metal such as gold or silver.
In numismatics, coins often derived their value from the precious metal content; however, base metals have also been used in coins in the past and today. Base metals are typically abundant and widely available, making them less expensive than precious metals such as gold and silver. They are often used in industrial applications and in the production of everyday items such as coins, pipes, and wires.

In the field of numismatics, coins have historically been valued based on their precious metal content, with gold and silver coins often commanding higher prices than those made of base metals. However, base metals such as copper, nickel, and zinc have also been used in the production of coins throughout history and continue to be used today. In some cases, coins made of base metals may have numismatic value due to their rarity, historical significance, or other factors.