A 1983 Lincoln Cent just shocked the coin collecting world by selling for $29,250 at auction this past weekend. This price is nearly unheard of for this year and type of penny—and here’s exactly why it happened.
Why This 1983 Penny Sold for Over $29,000
Most 1983 pennies are worth face value—unless they have one critical difference: their weight.
- Standard 1983 penny: 2.5 grams (zinc composition)
- Rare error version: 3.1 grams (copper composition)
The heavier copper version exists because in 1983, the U.S. Mint had fully switched from copper to zinc planchets—but a few leftover copper blanks were accidentally struck.
How to Identify the Rare 1983 Copper Penny
Step 1: Check the Date
- Must be 1983 (no mint mark or “D” mint mark acceptable)
Step 2: Weigh the Coin
- 2.5 grams = common, no extra value
- 3.1 grams = rare copper error, potentially worth thousands
Step 3: Condition Matters
- Mint State 65 (MS65) examples can sell for $20K–$30K
- Even circulated examples can fetch $4,000–$5,000
The Record-Breaking Auction
- Auction Price: $29,250
- Grade: PCGS MS65
- Rarity: Only a small number confirmed to exist
Pro Tips for Collectors
- Always weigh 1983 pennies—a simple digital scale can reveal a fortune.
- Never clean the coin—cleaning can destroy its numismatic value.
- Get professional grading—PCGS or NGC certification is essential for maximum value.
Bottom Line: If your 1983 penny weighs 3.1 grams, you may be holding a coin worth more than a brand-new car. Start checking your change jars—you could be the next record-breaking seller.
