The 1982-D Small Date Copper Lincoln Cent has become the holy grail of modern U.S. coin collecting. With only three confirmed examples and a record auction price of $398,000, this transitional error is now rarer than the legendary 1943 bronze cent.
Could one be hiding in your collection? Let’s dive into what makes this coin so valuable, how to identify it, and where to look.
🏛️ Why the 1982-D Small Date Copper Is So Valuable
🔄 The 1982 Composition Change
In 1982, the U.S. Mint switched from 95% copper cents (3.11g) to zinc-core cents with copper plating (2.5g) to save money.
But during this transition, the Denver Mint mistakenly struck a few small date varieties on leftover copper planchets — creating one of the rarest modern coins in U.S. history.
📊 Known Specimens: Only 3 authenticated examples exist, compared to 10+ known 1943 copper cents.
🔍 How to Identify a 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny
🧾 Diagnostic Checklist
| Feature | 1982-D Copper (Rare) | Regular 1982 Zinc (Common) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 3.11g (±0.05g) | 2.5g |
| Date Size | Small Date | Mostly Large Date |
| Mintmark | “D” (Denver) | “D” |
| Edge | Solid Copper | Zinc core may show |
| Sound | Deep ring | Dull, tin-like clink |
🔎 Small Date vs. Large Date Tips:
- “2” Shape: Small date has a straight base, large date has a curved base.
- “8” Loops: Small date has symmetrical loops, large date looks uneven.
- Use at least a 10x loupe for comparison.
💰 Market Value & Auction Records
📈 Certified Examples:
- PCGS MS65BN – Sold for $398,000 (2017, record price)
- NGC MS64RD – Smithsonian Institution example
- ANACS MS63RB – Held by Legend Numismatics
💡 Note: All known coins are Mint State (uncirculated).
🧭 Where to Search for One
💵 Best Hunting Grounds:
- Original 1982-D mint rolls (especially early strikes)
- Bank bags of pennies ($50 face value)
- Estate coin collections from the 1980s
📍 Last Discovery: Found in 2009 inside a Minnesota bank roll. Experts believe 5–10 total coins may exist.
🧪 How to Authenticate
✅ Step-by-Step Check
- Weigh it → Must be 3.11g (±0.05g)
- Check the date style → Confirm it’s a small date
- Metal test → XRF analysis should show 95% copper
- Edge check → No zinc showing through
- Submit for grading → PCGS or NGC for authentication
🚩 Fake Red Flags:
❌ Weight under 3.05g
❌ Plating wear showing zinc core
❌ Altered date or mintmark
❌ Polished coins being passed as “rare copper”
📈 Investment Potential
| Year | Value |
|---|---|
| 2010 | $112,500 |
| 2017 | $398,000 (record) |
| 2030 est. | $750,000+ |
💡 Why Prices Keep Rising:
✔ Ultra-low population
✔ Transitional error appeal
✔ Strong demand from elite collectors
🏦 Where to Sell If You Find One
- Heritage Auctions – Record-breaking coin sales
- Stack’s Bowers – Trusted for rare cents
- Legend Rare Coin Auctions – Private treaty sales for top buyers
💡 Pro Tip: Request PCGS TrueView™ photos to maximize visibility and attract premium bids.
📩 Free Professional Evaluation
Think you’ve discovered a 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny? Send us clear photos for a free review.
📧 Email: copper@pennyverse.info
📌 Subject Line: 1982-D COPPER
You’ll Receive:
✔ Expert attribution
✔ Weight verification guide
✔ Next-step selling recommendations
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