How a Common-Looking Coin Became a Numismatic Legend
A single 1982 no mint mark Lincoln cent recently sold for $340,000 at auction – making it one of the most valuable modern pennies in existence. Here’s everything you need to know about this rare transitional error and how to check your own coins!
Why This Penny is Special
The Perfect Storm of Rarity
Historic Transition Year
- Pre-1982: 95% copper (3.11g)
- 1982+: Zinc-plated (2.5g)
Ultra-Rare Error Combination
- Struck on leftover copper planchet
- Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark)
- MS-67 Red (pristine condition)
Extreme Scarcity
- Only 5-10 confirmed examples exist
- Last auction: $340,000 (Heritage, 2022)
How to Spot the $340K Penny
(3 Simple Tests You Can Do at Home)
The Weight Test 
- 3.11g = Potential copper treasure
- 2.5g = Normal zinc penny
Magnet Check 
- Copper: Won’t stick
- Zinc: Slight attraction
Visual Inspection 
- Look for reddish copper color
- Check for smooth edges (no plating)
- Examine date/lettering for doubling
Pro Tip: Use a digital scale (0.01g accuracy) for reliable results!
2024 Value Breakdown
| 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 | Unc | $5-$50 |
| Normal Zinc | Any | $0.01 |
Authentication Protocol
(Don’t Get Scammed!)
- Never clean the coin
- Handle by edges with cotton gloves
- Submit to PCGS/NGC for grading
- Verify with experts before selling
Where to Sell Your Find
- Heritage Auctions (for premium errors)
- Stack’s Bowers
- Specialized error coin dealers
Start Your Treasure Hunt Today!
Millions of 1982 pennies still circulate. Yours could be the next six-figure discovery!
Free Resources:
1982 Penny Checklist
Verification Tutorial Videos
Expert Consultations
