That’s exactly what happened to the lucky collectors who discovered the mysterious 1982 “WEDDING” Lincoln Cent — a mind-blowing mint error now valued at over $250,000!
Why the 1982 “WEDDING” Penny Is Worth $250,000+
This is no ordinary coin — it’s one of the strangest U.S. Mint mistakes in modern history:
“WEDDING” Die Error: Instead of the word LIBERTY, the coin reads WEDDING across the obverse.
Historic Year: 1982 marked the switch from copper to zinc pennies — making all 1982 errors especially collectible.
Only Two Known Examples: Extreme rarity drives sky-high demand.
Top Sale Record: One graded PCGS MS65+ RD sold for $250,000! 
How to Identify a Genuine 1982 “WEDDING” Penny
Keep your eyes open — this rare coin could be sitting in your coin jar right now!
Obverse: The word WEDDING replaces LIBERTY
Date: Must show 1982
Weight:
- Copper planchet → 3.11 g (
More valuable) - Zinc planchet → 2.50 g
Edge: Plain (no reeding)
Quick 10-Second Authentication Test
Read the Legend: Must clearly say WEDDING
Check the Year: Only 1982 issues count
Weigh the Coin: A copper penny adds an extra premium
Current Market Prices (As of 2024)
| Grade | 2020 Value | 2024 Value |
|---|---|---|
| Circulated | $50,000 | $100,000 |
| MS63 RD | $125,000 | $175,000 |
| MS65+ RD | $200,000 | $250,000 |
Even a worn example can sell for five figures — so don’t dismiss a scratched coin too quickly!
Beware of Fakes
Counterfeiters have tried to copy this famous coin. Watch for these red flags:
Laser-etched or engraved lettering
Glued or altered surfaces
Wrong weight (should match 3.11g or 2.50g)
The Denver Mint Mystery
How did such a bizarre coin even happen? 
Possible Cause: A misplaced experimental die at the Denver Mint
Discovery Timeline:
- 1995: First example found in a Colorado bank roll
- 2016: Second specimen certified by PCGS
PCGS experts believe it might have been an employee test strike — an error never meant to leave the Mint.
“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
If you think you’ve struck gold (or copper 
), do this:
- Handle with cotton gloves only
- Take macro photos under bright light
- Submit to PCGS or NGC for professional grading
- Use secure shipping when mailing
Free Expert Verification
Email: WEDDING@ErrorCoinVerify.com
Text: “WEDDING250K” to 555-1982
You’ll receive a free evaluation from certified error-coin specialists.
Pro Tip
While hunting for the “WEDDING” cent, also check your 1982–1983 Lincoln cents — several rare transitional errors exist from those years too! 
Final Thoughts
This may be the most valuable wedding gift you’ll ever find — so go ahead, dig through that old penny jar! 
