Iron (chemical symbol Fe, from the Latin
ferrum) is an abundant metal with a grey metallic appearance. It is relatively strong but corrodes easily, forming rust, which limits its suitability for coinage. Iron has been used for coins primarily in times of economic hardship or metal shortages, notably during both World Wars and in some early monetary systems. Where used, it may be found either as plain iron (often heavily corroded today), with coatings intended to limit rusting, or alloyed with other elements to form
steel.
