Stainless steel is an alloy of iron, carbon, and chromium, with chromium content typically at least 10.5% to form a thin protective oxide layer that greatly improves corrosion resistance compared to
standard steel. It has a bright, silvery appearance and is hard and wear-resistant. Stainless steel has been used for circulation coinage in a number of countries from the mid-20th century onward, valued for its long-term durability and resistance to rust. It is hard to strike, which has limited its adoption, but it remains in use today for circulation coins in several countries. Depending on its composition, stainless steel may or may not be magnetic.
