Why does one coin seem heavier than another even though they are almost the same size? The answer is simple: the weight, thickness, metal and shape of the edges are specifically designed into the design of the coin.
Each denomination should be easily distinguishable from the others – not only visually, but also to the touch. Therefore, when creating coins, several parameters are taken into account: diameter, thickness, weight, metal composition, edge color and shape.
Metal directly affects weight
Different metals have different densities. Therefore, two coins of similar diameter can differ noticeably in weight if they are made from different alloys.
The material is chosen not only by weight. It must be strong enough to resist corrosion and wear, and the coin itself must not be too expensive to produce.
Thickness helps to recognize denomination
The difference in thickness and size allows you to quickly distinguish coins from each other. This is especially important for people with low vision who can determine the denomination by touch.
The same physical parameters are used by machines – parking terminals, ticket machines, vending machines and cash register systems.
The machine can check several characteristics at once: size, weight, metal and electromagnetic properties of the coin.
The price of a coin is not determined by its weight
The more expensive coin does not have to be the largest or heaviest.
The face value today has virtually no connection with the value of the metal it contains. Therefore, a high value coin may be lighter or smaller than a lower value coin.
Why are different edges needed?
If you look closely at Euro coins, you can easily notice that their edges are different.
Some have notches, others have smooth areas or complex patterns. This helps to distinguish denominations by touch and at the same time complicates the production of counterfeits.
Why are 1 and 2 euros two-colored?
The 1 and 2 euro coins are bimetallic: The center and outer ring are made of different alloys.
This design is clearly visible visually, gives the coin additional physical characteristics for verification by automatic machines and at the same time is one of the elements of protection against counterfeiting.
Every gram is calculated in advance
Therefore, the differences between coins are not at all accidental. They must be human-friendly, easy to recognize by machines, withstand years of handling, and still be difficult enough to copy.
So the difference of a few grams or millimeters is not a manufacturing feature, but part of the carefully calculated design of the money.
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