A seemingly ordinary 1982 Lincoln cent without a mint mark shocked the coin world when it sold for $340,000 at auction. This makes it one of the most valuable modern U.S. pennies ever discovered! 🏆
If you’ve got some spare change lying around, this guide will help you spot, test, and identify this rare transitional error coin — and maybe turn a penny into a small fortune.
💎 Why This Penny Is So Valuable
In 1982, the U.S. Mint made a major composition change for pennies:
- Before 1982: 95% copper (weighs 3.11g)
- After 1982: Copper-plated zinc (weighs 2.5g)
The rare $340K penny is a mistake — struck on a leftover copper planchet when the mint had already switched to zinc.
Key facts about this $340,000 coin:
✅ Struck at the Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark)
✅ Made of solid copper instead of zinc
✅ Mint State 67 Red (pristine condition)
✅ Only 5–10 coins known to exist
🔍 3 Simple Tests to Check Your 1982 Pennies
1️⃣ Weight Test ⚖️
- 3.11g → Possible rare copper penny
- 2.5g → Normal zinc penny
(Tip: Use a digital scale with 0.01g accuracy for the best results.)
2️⃣ Magnet Test 🧲
- Copper = Does not stick
- Zinc = May show a slight attraction
3️⃣ Visual Inspection 🔎
- Reddish-copper color
- Smooth edges with no visible plating
- Sharp, clear date and lettering
💰 2024 Value Guide for 1982 Pennies
| Coin Type | Condition | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| Copper Planchet Error | MS-60+ | $10,000 – $340,000 |
| Double Die Obverse | AU-50+ | $500 – $5,000 |
| Small Date Variety | Uncirculated | $5 – $50 |
| Normal Zinc Penny | Any | $0.01 |
🛡️ How to Protect & Authenticate Your Find
- Never clean the coin — it lowers the value 📉
- Handle only by the edges (use cotton gloves)
- Submit to PCGS or NGC for professional grading
- Get a second opinion from a reputable coin dealer before selling
🏦 Where to Sell a Rare 1982 Penny
- Heritage Auctions (premium coin auctions)
- Stack’s Bowers (high-end numismatic sales)
- Specialized error coin dealers
🔥 Start Checking Your Change Today!
Millions of 1982 pennies are still in circulation — and one of them could make you six figures richer.
📥 Free Resources:
- ✅ 1982 Penny Identification Checklist
- 🎥 Step-by-Step Verification Videos
- 📞 Expert Consultation Services
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