we explore the fascinating world of valuable coins—and few stories capture collectors’ imaginations quite like the 1982-D Small Date Copper (Bronze) Lincoln Cent. While 1982 saw billions of pennies minted, one rare error variety has reached legendary status, with the potential to turn a common pocket coin into a $398,000 treasure.
If you own a 1982-D penny, pay close attention—you could be holding a fortune.
The 1982 Transition: A Year of Eight Penny Varieties
In 1982, the U.S. Mint changed the composition of pennies due to rising copper prices. The traditional 95% copper (bronze) was replaced with a lighter copper-plated zinc composition. This shift led to eight different business-strike varieties across the Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (“D”) Mints.
The 1982 Lincoln Cent Varieties:
- 1982 Large Date Copper (3.1g)
- 1982 Small Date Copper (3.1g)
- 1982 Large Date Zinc (2.5g)
- 1982 Small Date Zinc (2.5g)
- 1982-D Large Date Copper (3.1g)
- 1982-D Small Date Copper (3.1g) ← The Rare One
- 1982-D Large Date Zinc (2.5g)
- 1982-D Small Date Zinc (2.5g)
Why the 1982-D Small Date Copper Is So Valuable
This rare combination—a Denver-minted Small Date penny struck in copper (bronze)—was not intended to exist. The Denver Mint was believed to have only used zinc planchets for the Small Date variety, making any copper examples accidental rarities.
Recent Auction Highlights:
- In 2017, a verified 1982-D Small Date Copper penny discovered by Paul Malone sold for $18,800 at Stack’s Bowers.
- Experts estimate that a pristine, professionally graded example could command $100,000–$398,000+, depending on condition and authentication.
How to Identify the $398,000 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny
✅ Step 1: Check for the “D” Mint Mark
- Located below the date on the front (obverse) of the coin.
- Must have a clear “D” (for Denver).
- No mint mark = not the rare variety.
✅ Step 2: Identify the “Small Date” Design
Compare your coin’s numerals to the Small Date characteristics:
- Small Date:
- “2” has a straighter diagonal with a less prominent top curve.
- “8” loops are smaller and closer together.
- Large Date:
- “2” has a rounder, more open top loop.
- “8” loops are wider and more spaced out.
Tip: Use side-by-side images or certified coin references from PCGS CoinFacts or NGC VarietyPlus for accuracy.
✅ Step 3: Confirm the Composition — Copper vs. Zinc
This step is critical.
- Copper (Bronze) pennies weigh around 3.11 grams
- Zinc pennies weigh 2.5 grams
How to Weigh Your Coin:
- Use a precision digital scale accurate to two decimal places.
- A weight close to 3.1g means copper—a potentially extremely valuable variety.
- A weight near 2.5g confirms it’s the common zinc version.
Optional Checks (Quick but Not Definitive):
- Sound Test: Copper coins ring clearly when dropped; zinc coins produce a dull thud.
- Magnet Test: Should not stick to a magnet—if it does, it’s not from 1982 (likely a 1943 steel penny).
Grading Guide: What Condition Means for Value
Professional grading dramatically affects the market value of this coin. Authentication by PCGS or NGC is essential.
| Grade | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Circulated | Visible wear, smooth details | Still highly valuable |
| AU-50 | Light wear, near uncirculated | $10,000+ |
| MS-63 | Uncirculated with some minor marks | $50,000+ |
| MS-65 | Choice Uncirculated, high luster | High six-figure potential |
| MS-67+ | Gem quality, exceptional condition | Up to $398,000+ |
Where to Sell a 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny
🥇 Top Recommended Outlets:
- Professional Coin Grading Services
- PCGS or NGC: Authentication and grading is non-negotiable.
- Never clean the coin—this reduces value!
- Leading Auction Houses
- Heritage Auctions
- Stack’s Bowers Galleries
- GreatCollections
- Specialized High-End Dealers
- Work with dealers experienced in error coins and transitional rarities.
🚫 Avoid general marketplaces (like eBay) unless the coin is certified by a major grading company.
2024–2025 Market Update: Trends to Watch
- Modern Errors on the Rise: Coins from the 1970s–2000s with transitional features are gaining collector attention.
- Professional Certification Drives Value: PCGS and NGC-graded coins dominate high-end sales.
- Online Sales Outpace Shows: Premier auction platforms remain the best way to reach serious buyers.
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Your six-figure discovery might be waiting in your pocket change—let’s find it together.
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