How a Minting Mistake Created a Modern Numismatic Treasure
A single 1982-D Small Date copper penny recently sold for a staggering $398,000 – making it one of the most valuable modern coins in existence. With only 5-10 confirmed specimens, this accidental copper treasure could be hiding in your pocket change right now. Here’s how to identify it.
🔍 Key Identification Features
Obverse (Front)
- Small Date variety (delicate “2” with curved base)
- “D” mintmark (Denver Mint)
- Copper color (not zinc silver-gray)
Reverse (Back)
- Standard Lincoln Memorial design
- Must show no signs of plating or alteration
Physical Specs
- Weight: 3.11g (must verify)
- Diameter: 19.05mm
- Magnetism: Non-magnetic
💰 2024 Valuation Guide (PCGS-Certified)
| Grade | Description | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| MS-67 RD | Perfect red color | $250K-$398K |
| MS-65 RD | Few marks | $100K-$200K |
| AU-55 | Light wear | $25K-$50K |
Key Facts:
- Transition year: Copper to zinc changeover
- Survivors: Only 5-10 confirmed copper specimens
🔬 4-Step Authentication Protocol
1️⃣ Weight Verification
- Must be 3.11g (zinc pennies weigh 2.5g)
2️⃣ Magnet Test
- True copper: Won’t stick
- Zinc-plated: May show slight attraction
3️⃣ Date Examination
- Small Date has curved “2” base
- Compare to known genuine examples
4️⃣ Professional Grading
- PCGS/NGC certification essential
🏛 Why This Penny is So Valuable
✅ Extreme rarity (Denver Mint wasn’t supposed to strike copper)
✅ Historical significance (Last year of copper cents)
✅ Perfect storm of mint error and condition rarity
⚠️ Critical Warnings
❌ Altered coins (zinc pennies plated with copper)
❌ Weight discrepancies (must be exact)
❌ Uncertified sales (always get PCGS/NGC grading)
💎 Where to Sell Your Treasure
- Heritage Auctions (Record prices)
- Stack’s Bowers (Specialist dealers)
- Private collectors (Discreet sales)
Think You Found One?
📧 Submit for free evaluation:
- High-res photos of both sides
- Precise weight measurement
- Mintmark close-up
Free With Submission:
📥 “Million-Dollar Pennies” Checklist
📈 Current Market Analysis
*”Fewer than 10 exist – could yours be next?”*
– The CoinVerse Authentication Team
🔔 Reply “1982COPPER” for Priority Review‘
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