Imagine finding a penny in your change that’s worth a quarter of a million dollars. That’s the reality for the lucky few who have discovered the 1982 “WEDDING” Lincoln Cent — one of the most bizarre and valuable modern mint errors ever documented.
Why This 1982 Penny Commands $250,000+
- “WEDDING” Die Error – The word LIBERTY on the obverse is completely replaced by the word WEDDING.
- Transition Year Significance – 1982 marked the U.S. Mint’s change from copper to zinc composition.
- Only Two Confirmed – Extreme rarity fuels demand and astronomical prices.
- Top-Grade Example – A PCGS MS65+ RD specimen sold for $250,000.
Key Identification Features
- Obverse: “WEDDING” where LIBERTY should be
- Date: Must read 1982
- Weight:
- Copper: 3.11 g (more valuable)
- Zinc: 2.50 g
- Edge: Plain (no reeding)
How to Verify This Rare Error
1. The 10-Second Authentication Test
Read the Legend – Must clearly say WEDDING
Check the Date – Only 1982 issues are valid
Weigh Precisely – A copper planchet adds a premium
2. Current Market Value
| Grade | 2020 Value | 2024 Value |
|---|---|---|
| Circulated | $50,000 | $100,000 |
| MS63 RD | $125,000 | $175,000 |
| MS65+ RD | $200,000 | $250,000 |
3. Warning Signs of Counterfeits
Laser-etched lettering
Glued-on inserts
Incorrect weight
The Denver Mint Mystery
- Possible Cause: Misplaced experimental die
- Discovery Timeline:
- 1995 – First example found in a Colorado bank roll
- 2016 – Second example certified by PCGS
- PCGS Theory: Might have been a mint employee’s test piece
“I found mine in my wedding change purse — hence the nickname!” — Original discoverer of the AU-58 coin
What to Do If You Find One
- Handle only with cotton gloves
- Take macro photos from all angles under bright lighting
- Submit to PCGS or NGC for grading
- Arrange secure transport if mailing
Free Professional Verification
Email high-resolution images to: WEDDING@ErrorCoinVerify.com
Text: WEDDING250K to 555-1982
Pro Tip: While searching for the WEDDING penny, also check all 1982–1983 cents for valuable transitional errors.
P.S. This might be the most valuable “wedding gift” you’ll ever find — so dig into those old coin jars!
