The 1982 small date copper penny stands out as a remarkable find in the world of coin collecting, due to its rarity, historical significance, and surprising value. It is one of the rarest and most coveted pennies, often fetching prices well over $10,000 at auction.
A Year of Change: The 1982 Penny
In 1982, the U.S. Mint made a pivotal change in the composition of the penny. As copper prices surged, the Mint shifted from a 95% copper and 5% zinc mix to a predominantly zinc penny, with only a thin copper coating. This transition resulted in two distinct types of pennies: the copper pennies, weighing approximately 3.11 grams, and the zinc pennies, which were lighter at about 2.5 grams. Furthermore, the Mint produced both large and small date varieties of these pennies, creating a total of seven distinct types of 1982 pennies.
However, one anomaly occurred: the 1982-D (Denver Mint) small date copper penny, which was not officially documented, making its discovery a rare and exciting event in numismatic circles.
Identifying the 1982 Small Date Copper Penny
Collectors need to pay close attention to the following characteristics to identify the 1982 small date copper penny:
- Date Style: The small date penny features a more delicate, refined “2” with a subtle curve at its base, compared to the more robust “2” in the large date version.
- Mint Mark: The “D” mint mark beneath the date indicates that the coin was minted in Denver.
- Weight: Copper pennies weigh about 3.11 grams, while zinc pennies are lighter, at about 2.5 grams.
- Sound Test: Copper pennies have a higher-pitched ringing sound when dropped, while zinc pennies produce a duller thud.
The Rarity and Value of the 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny
The rarity of the 1982-D small date copper penny cannot be overstated. To date, only two specimens have been confirmed:
- First Discovery: In 2016, a collector in Minnesota discovered the first known example, which was graded AU-58 (About Uncirculated). It sold for $18,800 at a Stack’s Bowers auction in August 2017.
- Second Discovery: A second specimen was found shortly thereafter, selling for $10,800 in an April 2019 Heritage Auctions sale.
These discoveries have contributed to the coin’s extraordinary value, driven by its rarity and the fascinating circumstances of its creation during a transitional period in U.S. coinage history.
Factors Contributing to Its Value
Several factors contribute to the high value of the 1982-D small date copper penny:
- Rarity: With only two known examples in existence, the penny’s scarcity makes it highly valuable to collectors.
- Minting Error: Its existence is attributed to a minting oversight during the transition from copper to zinc planchets, making it a rare minting anomaly.
- Historical Significance: The 1982 penny represents a pivotal year in U.S. coinage history, making it a prized historical artifact.
The 1982 Penny Variations
The following table outlines the different 1982 penny variations:
| Variation | Composition | Weight (grams) | Date Style | Mint Mark |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1982 Large Date Copper | Copper | 3.11 | Large | None |
| 1982 Small Date Copper | Copper | 3.11 | Small | None |
| 1982 Large Date Zinc | Zinc | 2.5 | Large | None |
| 1982 Small Date Zinc | Zinc | 2.5 | Small | None |
| 1982-D Large Date Copper | Copper | 3.11 | Large | “D” |
| 1982-D Large Date Zinc | Zinc | 2.5 | Large | “D” |
| 1982-D Small Date Zinc | Zinc | 2.5 | Small | “D” |
| 1982-D Small Date Copper* | Copper | 3.11 | Small | “D” |
*Note: The 1982-D small date copper penny is extremely rare, with only two known specimens.
Collecting and Authenticating the 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny
For anyone lucky enough to discover a potential 1982-D small date copper penny, authentication is essential:
- Professional Grading: Submit the coin to a reputable grading service like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) for verification and a grade.
- Documentation: Keep detailed records, including photographs and weight measurements, to support the coin’s authenticity.
The 1982-D small date copper penny is a rare treasure, a product of a unique transitional moment in U.S. coinage history. Its scarcity, minting error, and historical context elevate it to a coveted status among collectors, with auction prices reflecting its extraordinary value. For collectors with a discerning eye and some luck, this penny is not just a piece of currency, but a valuable artifact of American history.
