A seemingly ordinary 1982 Lincoln cent without a mint mark shocked the coin world when it sold for $340,000 at auction. This makes it one of the most valuable modern U.S. pennies ever discovered! 
If you’ve got some spare change lying around, this guide will help you spot, test, and identify this rare transitional error coin — and maybe turn a penny into a small fortune.
Why This Penny Is So Valuable
In 1982, the U.S. Mint made a major composition change for pennies:
- Before 1982: 95% copper (weighs 3.11g)
- After 1982: Copper-plated zinc (weighs 2.5g)
The rare $340K penny is a mistake — struck on a leftover copper planchet when the mint had already switched to zinc.
Key facts about this $340,000 coin:
Struck at the Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark)
Made of solid copper instead of zinc
Mint State 67 Red (pristine condition)
Only 5–10 coins known to exist
3 Simple Tests to Check Your 1982 Pennies
Weight Test 
- 3.11g → Possible rare copper penny
- 2.5g → Normal zinc penny
(Tip: Use a digital scale with 0.01g accuracy for the best results.)
Magnet Test 
- Copper = Does not stick
- Zinc = May show a slight attraction
Visual Inspection 
- Reddish-copper color
- Smooth edges with no visible plating
- Sharp, clear date and lettering
2024 Value Guide for 1982 Pennies
| Coin Type | Condition | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| Copper Planchet Error | MS-60+ | $10,000 – $340,000 |
| Double Die Obverse | AU-50+ | $500 – $5,000 |
| Small Date Variety | Uncirculated | $5 – $50 |
| Normal Zinc Penny | Any | $0.01 |
How to Protect & Authenticate Your Find
- Never clean the coin — it lowers the value
- Handle only by the edges (use cotton gloves)
- Submit to PCGS or NGC for professional grading
- Get a second opinion from a reputable coin dealer before selling
Where to Sell a Rare 1982 Penny
- Heritage Auctions (premium coin auctions)
- Stack’s Bowers (high-end numismatic sales)
- Specialized error coin dealers
Start Checking Your Change Today!
Millions of 1982 pennies are still in circulation — and one of them could make you six figures richer.
Free Resources:
- 1982 Penny Identification Checklist
Step-by-Step Verification Videos
Expert Consultation Services
