Common Cents Act

(1) in subsection (a)—

(A) in paragraph (5), by striking weighs 5 grams. and inserting the following:

(A) weighs—

(A) 5 grams, with respect to such coin that is an alloy of copper and nickel; or

(B) between 4 and 6 grams, with respect to such coin as described in subsection (c).

(A) ; and

(B) in paragraph (6)—

(i) by striking except as provided under subsection (c) of this section,; and

(ii) by striking and weighs 3.11 grams;

(2) in subsection (b)—

(A) in the sixth sentence—

(i) by inserting either before an alloy; and

(ii) by inserting or a composition described in subsection (c) before the period;

(B) by inserting with respect to such coins that are an alloy of copper and nickel after nickel required; and

(C) by striking Except through zinc and inserting The one-cent coin is composed of copper and zinc;

(3) by amending subsection (c) to read as follows:

The 5-cent coin may be a coin with an inner layer of zinc and an outer layer of nickel.

The Secretary may prescribe the composition of zinc and nickel in the 5-cent coin, subject to testing and evaluation that such composition reduces the cost incurred to produce such coin.

(3) ; and

(4) by adding at the end the following:

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary shall cease production of one-cent coins for general circulation, but may continue to produce and issue one-cent coins for sale as numismatic items.

Any one-cent coin that is minted and issued on any date before the date of the enactment of this subsection shall remain legal tender for all debts, public charges, taxes, and dues.