Copper Penny vs Rich Copper: What's the Difference?
Updated November 2026 3 min read 2 shades compared
Choose copper penny if you want a bright, glossy orange-copper that flashes in sunlight. Choose rich copper if you want a deeper, redder copper that looks more natural indoors.
Copper Penny vs Rich Copper at a glance
| Compare | Copper Penny | Rich Copper |
|---|---|---|
| Tone | Bright orange-copper | Deep red-copper |
| Starting level | Level 6–7; needs a lift on dark hair | Level 5–6; slightly easier on medium brown |
| Best on | Fair to medium warm skin | Medium to olive skin |
| Maintenance | High—gloss every 4 weeks | Medium-high—gloss every 4–6 weeks |
| Fades to | Warm orange-gold | Warm red-brown |
| Best for | A bold, glossy statement | A wearable copper with depth |
Which one suits you?
Copper Penny
It flatters fair and medium skin with warm undertones and makes green or hazel eyes pop. Very pink or cool skin may prefer a softer oxidized copper.
Rich Copper
It flatters warm and neutral skin tones and looks especially good with green or hazel eyes. If your skin is very pink, a softer oxidized copper is usually easier to wear.
What to ask your stylist
Copper Penny: Ask for a level 6–7 bright copper with a high-shine gloss. Dark hair needs a full lift; do not attempt it without a strand test.
Rich Copper: Ask for a full copper with a level 6–7 base and a high-shine gloss. If your hair is dark, plan for a pre-lighten; copper does not show up on unlifted black hair.
Color results depend on your starting level, hair history and undertone. Book a strand test before a full application—it is the cheapest way to avoid an expensive correction.
Questions people ask
Which is brighter, copper penny or rich copper?
Copper penny is brighter and more orange. Rich copper is deeper and more red, so it looks more natural in low light.
Which one is easier on dark hair?
Rich copper, because it sits slightly deeper. Both still need lifting on very dark hair; ask for a strand test before committing.
Do they fade differently?
Yes. Copper penny fades toward orange-gold, while rich copper fades toward red-brown. A gloss every 4–6 weeks keeps either shade from going flat.