STOP! Your 1982-D Penny Could Be Worth $398,000+
At PennyVerse, collectors are buzzing over one of the rarest modern U.S. coins — the 1982-D Small Date Copper Lincoln Cent, with potential values reaching up to $398,000 (and rising!).
Although billions of 1982 pennies were struck, only a tiny handful were made from copper by mistake… and they’re now worth life-changing money. Here’s how to identify this treasure right from your spare change.
Why This Penny Is Worth So Much
A Historic 1982 Metal Change
1982 was the year the U.S. Mint changed penny composition:
- 95% Copper → Copper-plated Zinc
During this transition, a few leftover copper planchets were mistakenly used.
These rare 1982-D Small Date copper errors are now among the most valuable modern pennies ever discovered.
Extreme Rarity
Estimated only 5–10 real examples exist
Past auction record: $18,800 (Stack’s Bowers, 2017)
Experts believe high-grade pieces could sell for $398,000–$500,000+ today
Booming Collector Demand
Modern error coins are exploding in popularity.
The next verified discovery could spark a massive bidding war among top collectors.
How to Identify the 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Check the Mintmark
Must show a “D” below the date (Denver Mint).
If it’s a 1982 with no “D,” it’s not the $398K coin.
Step 2: Confirm the “Small Date” Design
Look for two major signs:
The “2”
- Small Date = flat top, less curvature
- Large Date = more rounded
The “8”
- Small Date = tighter, smaller loops
- Large Date = bigger, rounder loops
Tip: Compare with Google images or another 1982 penny.
Step 3: Verify the Metal — This Is the MOST Important Step
You MUST weigh the coin.
Weight Test:
- 3.11 grams → Copper → The rare & valuable one!
- 2.5 grams → Zinc → Common, worth 1¢
Use a digital scale (they cost $8–$12 online).
Magnet Test:
Not useful here — neither copper nor zinc pennies stick to magnets.
What to Do If You Find One
Protect the Coin Immediately
- Handle by the edges only
- No cleaning (destroys value)
- Store in a coin flip or hard holder
Send for Professional Grading
Use:
- PCGS
- NGC
Certification is required for six-figure sales.
Sell Through Major Auction Houses
To maximize profit, use:
- Heritage Auctions
- Stack’s Bowers Galleries
These attract serious collectors and drive prices higher.
2024–2025 Market Outlook
Interest in modern errors is skyrocketing
A high-grade 1982-D Small Date copper cent may soon hit $500,000+
Now is the perfect time to check your spare change!
Free Collector Resources
Download: 1982 Penny Error Checklist
Watch: How to Identify Small Date vs Large Date
Join: Our PennyVerse Collector Community
