Thanks to rare errors, varieties, and high grades, some 1983 pennies have sold for over $7,000 at auction! Let’s explore the different types of 1983 penny errors, their values, and how you can find one.
Why 1983 Pennies Are Special
The year 1983 marked a big change for U.S. pennies. The Mint switched from mostly copper (3.1g) to copper-plated zinc (2.6g). This transition caused a wide variety of errors and minting issues that collectors now pay top dollar for.
Fun Fact: A regular 1983 penny in pristine condition can already be valuable—even without errors!
1983 Penny Values (No Errors Required)
Even without errors, a high-grade 1983 penny is worth much more than face value.
1983 Lincoln Memorial Cent (MS68) → Sold for $1,840- 1983 Lincoln Memorial Cent (MS68+) → Valued around $5,000 each (only 2 known!)
- 1983-D Lincoln Cent (MS68) → Sold for $1,380
Condition (eye appeal) is everything. The sharper and shinier your coin, the higher the value.
1983 Penny Errors & Varieties
Doubled Die Reverse (DDR)
One of the most famous 1983 penny errors is the Doubled Die Reverse.
- MS68RD DDR penny → Sold for $7,050
- MS64BN DDR penny → Sold for $495
- Doubled features can often be seen with the naked eye, but a 10x loupe or USB microscope helps confirm.
Die Clash Errors
A die clash error happens when the coin dies strike each other without a planchet in between, leaving unusual marks.
- Raw examples start around $5+ on eBay
- Some show rim cuds, die cracks, and struck-through errors → all add value
Struck-Through Errors
Sometimes debris or grease gets in the way during minting.
- A 1983 penny with a struck-through error can fetch $5 and up, depending on condition.
Plating Bubbles & Blisters
Because 1983 pennies are zinc with copper plating, many have plating bubbles.
- Not highly valuable (usually under $1), but still collected.
- Watch out for zinc rot if the bubbles pop.
Wrong Planchet Errors
Weight is key!
- A zinc penny should weigh 2.6g
- A copper penny should weigh 3.1g
- Anything different could mean a wrong planchet error → very valuable!
Tip: Use a small digital scale to check.
Die Cracks & Cuds
Collectors love die cracks, especially when they form unique designs.
- Examples include the “Hanging Rope Penny” and the “Impaled Lincoln”
- These can be worth much more than face value depending on eye appeal.
How to Find Rare 1983 Pennies
- Search through pocket change
- Buy uncirculated penny rolls (bank-wrapped)
- Examine 1983 mint sets (don’t crack them open unless you’re grading)
- Submit rare finds to professional graders like NGC, PCGS, or ANACS
Final Thoughts
The 1983 Lincoln cent is a favorite among collectors because of its transition year and error potential. From plating bubbles to rare doubled dies worth thousands, your 1983 penny could be a hidden treasure.
Next time you see a 1983 penny in your change, check it carefully—you might just have a $7,000 coin in your pocket! 
