A 1983 Lincoln Cent just shocked the coin collecting world by selling for $29,250 at auction this past weekend. This price is nearly unheard of for this year and type of penny—and here’s exactly why it happened.Why This 1983 Penny Sold for Over $29,000
Most 1983 pennies are worth face value—unless they have one critical difference: their weight.
- Standard 1983 penny: 2.5 grams (zinc composition)
- Rare error version: 3.1 grams (copper composition)
The heavier copper version exists because in 1983, the U.S. Mint had fully switched from copper to zinc planchets—but a few leftover copper blanks were accidentally struck.
How to Identify the Rare 1983 Copper Penny
Step 1: Check the Date
- Must be 1983 (no mint mark or “D” mint mark acceptable)
Step 2: Weigh the Coin
- 2.5 grams = common, no extra value
- 3.1 grams = rare copper error, potentially worth thousands
Step 3: Condition Matters
- Mint State 65 (MS65) examples can sell for $20K–$30K
- Even circulated examples can fetch $4,000–$5,000
The Record-Breaking Auction
- Auction Price: $29,250
- Grade: PCGS MS65
- Rarity: Only a small number confirmed to exist
Pro Tips for Collectors
- Always weigh 1983 pennies—a simple digital scale can reveal a fortune.
- Never clean the coin—cleaning can destroy its numismatic value.
- Get professional grading—PCGS or NGC certification is essential for maximum value.
Bottom Line: If your 1983 penny weighs 3.1 grams, you may be holding a coin worth more than a brand-new car. Start checking your change jars—you could be the next record-breaking seller.
