This extraordinary 1982-D Small Date Lincoln cent represents the holy grail of modern coin collecting, with a record $398,000 auction sale. Here’s why this transitional error commands such astronomical value and how to identify it.
Historical Significance & Rarity
The 1982 Transition Year
- Composition Change: U.S. Mint switched from 95% copper to zinc cores
- Denver Mint Anomaly: A few copper planchets were accidentally used
- Known Specimens: Only 3 confirmed examples (vs. 10+ for 1943 copper cents)
Why It’s Pricier Than 1943 Coppers
Small Date Variety (already scarce)
Denver Mintmark (D) – only copper 1982-D known
Perfect Preservation (all three are Mint State)
Key Identification Features
Diagnostic Checklist
| Feature | 1982-D Copper | Regular 1982 Zinc |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 3.11g (±0.05g) | 2.5g |
| Date Size | Small date (compare to large date) | Large date common |
| Mintmark | “D” clearly visible | “D” present |
| Edge | Solid copper | Zinc core visible |
| Sound | Deep “ring” | Dull “clink” |
Small Date vs. Large Date
- “2” Shape: Small date has straight base; large date curves
- “8” Formation: Small date shows even loops
- Magnification Needed: 10x+ loupe recommended
Grading & Market Value
Population Report
| Grade | Certification | Owner |
|---|---|---|
| MS65BN | PCGS | Private Collector |
| MS64RD | NGC | Smithsonian |
| MS63RB | ANACS | Legend Numismatics |
Record Sale: $398,000 (PCGS MS65BN, 2017)
Where to Search for Undiscovered Specimens
Best Hunting Grounds
- Original 1982-D Rolls (especially early batches)
- Bank Coin Bags ($50 bags of pennies)
- Estate Collections (look for uncirculated 1980s sets)
Discovery Potential
- Theoretical Survivors: Experts believe 5-10 may exist
- Last Found: 2009 in a Minnesota bank roll
Authentication Protocol
Step-by-Step Verification
- Weigh Precisely (digital scale to 0.01g)
- Date Variety Check (small date diagnostics)
- XRF Metal Test (confirm copper composition)
- Edge Examination (no zinc layer)
- PCGS/NGC Submission (mandatory for marketability)
Red Flags:
Weight under 3.05g
Plated zinc coins (will show wear spots)
Altered mintmarks
Investment Potential
Value Appreciation
- 2010: $112,500 (first public sale)
- 2017: $398,000 (current record)
- Projected 2030 Value: $750,000+
Market Drivers:
- Ultra-Low Population
- Transitional Error Demand
- Registry Set Competition
Where to Sell
Auction House Options
- Heritage Auctions (record-setting sales)
- Stack’s Bowers (specializes in modern rarities)
- Legend Rare Coin Auctions (private treaty)
Selling Tip:
Insist on PCGS TrueView imaging for maximum exposure
Free Professional Evaluation
Think you’ve found a 1982-D copper cent? Email clear photos to:
copper@pennyverse.info
Subject: “1982-D COPPER”
We’ll provide:
Free preliminary assessment
Weight verification guide
Next-step recommendations
