H.R. 3074 — Common Cents Act

This section revises specifications for 5-cent coins and eliminates production of one-cent coins for general circulation. Specifically, it (1) modifies 5-cent coin weight to 5 grams for copper-nickel alloy coins or between 4 and 6 grams for coins with a zinc inner layer and nickel outer layer (previously fixed at 5 grams for copper-nickel alloy only), with the Secretary authorized to prescribe the zinc-nickel composition subject to cost-reduction testing; and (2) directs the Secretary to cease minting one-cent coins for circulation (previously 0.75 inch in diameter and 3.11 grams) while allowing continued production for numismatic sales, with all previously minted one-cent coins remaining legal tender. (Thus, the changes enable lower-cost nickel production and end routine penny minting.)