Why It’s Special:
In 1982, the U.S. Mint transitioned from copper (95% copper) to copper-plated zinc (97.5% zinc).
That year, seven major varieties were created due to:
Two compositions (copper & zinc),
Two mint marks (Philadelphia & Denver),
Two date styles (Small Date & Large Date) — though Philly had both, Denver was only supposed to have Large Date zinc.
But in 2016, a coin was discovered that shouldn’t exist:
1982-D Small Date Copper Penny
Struck at the Denver Mint
Small Date style
Copper composition (3.1 grams) — NOT zinc (2.5g)
Only 1 confirmed authentic example has been graded by PCGS.
Value:
That one known coin sold for $18,800 in 2017.
If another turns up, it could be worth $10,000–$25,000+, depending on condition and authentication.
