Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the production of bands or sheets of isotropic mechanical properties from copper and copper alloys, such bands or sheets being subjectable to intensive cold shaping. According to the invention the ZrB.sub.2 (zirconium boride) content of the melted metal bath is adjusted by the addition of zirconium boride to a level between 0.01% by weight and 0.075% by weight, and if desired, not more than 50% by weight of the zirconium content of the added ZrB.sub.2 is replaced by one or more of the metals Ti, V, Nv, Ca, Mg and Co, then, if desired, zirconium is added to the metal bath in a stoichiometric ratio calculated for the lead content of the alloy exceeding 0.015% by weight, then the metal bath containing the additives is solidified in the form of a band, and if desired, an inert gas atmosphere is maintained in the heat stabilizing furnace of the casting equipment and/or an inert gas lock and secondary cooling are applied during the solidification of the metal bath.