Quick lead — why this coin matters
Imagine finding a 1982-D Lincoln cent that looks silver, is slightly smaller, and matches the Small-Date die — that combo could be a once-in-a-lifetime rarity worth six figures. This article explains what to look for, how to test coins at home, and the next steps if you think you’ve found a jackpot. Let’s dig in. 
The short version (must-reads)
- What makes it special: A 1982-D Small Date struck on a 90% silver Roosevelt dime planchet (wrong metal + wrong size + rare die).
- Why it’s valuable: Each trait is rare alone — together they form an extremely scarce error that could attract $200,000+ bids if authenticated.
- Reality check: True six-figure sales require professional grading and auction exposure. Don’t clean or tamper with the coin.
Why 1982 produced so many collecting goldmines
1982 was chaotic for the Lincoln cent:
- Two metal compositions in circulation (copper and copper-plated zinc).
- Two distinct date styles: Large Date and Small Date.
- Two mints: Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (D).
That transition created opportunities for planchet mix-ups and die variety overlaps — the perfect storm for errors.
What exactly is the “Silver Small-Date” error?
This hypothetical superstar has three simultaneous features:
- Wrong metal — struck on a 90% silver dime blank instead of copper or zinc.
- Wrong planchet size — dime diameter is smaller than a cent; rim may be weak or incomplete.
- Rare die variety — the 1982-D Small Date, a sought-after die already worth thousands in copper.
Combined, those traits are extremely rare — and extremely valuable if verified. 
How to inspect your 1982 pennies — step-by-step
Use this checklist BEFORE you do anything else:
- Gather every 1982 penny you have. (Rolls, jars, drawers — check everywhere.)
- Weigh with a precision scale (0.01 g):
- ~2.50 g → zinc (common)
- ~3.11 g → copper (less common; valuable variety)
- silver-color + ~2.3–2.7 g and smaller diameter → possible silver dime planchet
- Compare Small Date vs Large Date:
- Small Date — slimmer “2” and different curve. Use side-by-side photos for clarity.
- Look for silver clues:
- Bright silver color (not natural copper tone)
- Slightly smaller diameter, weak rim, or truncated rims
- Clear die features of the 1982-D Small Date
- Magnify & photograph: 10x loupe or microscope + high-res photos (obverse, reverse, closeups).
- Do NOT clean or polish. Ever. That destroys value.
Tools you’ll want
- 0.01g digital scale
- 10x–20x jeweler’s loupe or microscope
- Air-Tite or coin flips for protection
- Smartphone with macro camera for photos
What it might sell for — realistic expectations
- 1982-D Small Date (copper) — has historically reached $10,000–$20,000 in top condition.
- 1982-D Small Date on silver dime planchet — experts estimate potential for $200,000+ in mint state if authenticated and sold at a major auction.
- Caveat: The top price depends on provenance, grading, and collector demand. One spectacular specimen could command a premium; many lesser examples will not reach six figures.
If you find a candidate — immediate next steps
- Stop handling by the edges and place in a protective holder.
- Do not clean. Ever. (We’ll say it again: do not clean.)
- Photograph: full coin + closeups of rim, date, mintmark, and fields.
- Get opinions: Post clear images to reputable coin forums or trusted experts for preliminary feedback.
- Submit for professional authentication and grading (PCGS, NGC, or ANACS). Grading and attribution can unlock major auction interest.
- If authenticated and high value: sell through a major auction house (Heritage, Stack’s Bowers, GreatCollections) to reach top collectors.
Selling channels by value
- $5–$500: eBay, coin collectors’ groups, local dealers.
- $500–$10,000+: Major regional dealers or smaller auctions.
- $10,000–$200,000+: Certified + auction house exposure required.
Quick FAQ
Q — Is a silver color proof it’s on a dime planchet?
A — Not always. Color can be misleading. Use weight and diameter measurements plus visual rim clues.
Q — Could a similar error be fake?
A — Yes. Altered coins and damaged pieces can mimic errors. Professional grading is the ultimate verification.
