🔎 Introduction: Is the 1982-D Penny Really Worth $15,000 or More?

Recently, collectors and casual coin hunters have been buzzing about a rare 1982-D Lincoln penny reportedly worth up to $15,000 — or even $18,800 at auction. 😱

But not every 1982 penny is valuable. In fact, only one specific variety has reached these impressive prices.

This guide explains exactly how to identify the rare 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny step-by-step, so you can check your own coins with confidence.

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The ONLY video you need to help you find this $15,000+ penny!! #pcgspartner #findingmoney #penny #coins #foryou @PCGS

♬ original sound – Eric Miller

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🪙 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Identify the Rare 1982-D Copper Penny

Follow these steps carefully. Every detail matters.

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✅ Step 1: Confirm the Date Is 1982 📅

Start by checking the year printed on the front of the coin.

• The date must read: 1982
• This is the only year when both copper and zinc pennies were produced.

This transitional year created one of the most famous modern coin rarities.

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✅ Step 2: Look for the “D” Mint Mark 🔍

Next, examine the area just below the date.

• You must see a small “D” mintmark
• This indicates the coin was struck at the United States Mint facility in Denver

Only the Denver version of this rare copper small date penny is valuable.

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✅ Step 3: Check the Weight — 3.1 Grams ⚖️

This is the most important test.

Use a digital scale and check the coin’s weight:

• 3.1 grams = Copper penny (RARE) 💎
• 2.5 grams = Zinc penny (Common)

Copper pennies are heavier because they contain mostly copper metal.

If your coin weighs 3.1 grams, you may have a rare variety.

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✅ Step 4: Confirm It’s the Small Date Variety 🔬

This step is critical because both Small Date and Large Date versions exist.

Small Date (RARE):

• Thin, delicate lettering
• The “2” in 1982 appears farther from the rim
• Overall sharper appearance

Large Date (Common):

• Thicker numbers
• The “2” sits closer to the rim
• Heavier font style

The Small Date version is the valuable one.

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💰 How Much Is the 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny Worth?

A genuine example of this rare penny has sold for:

• 💎 Up to $18,800 at auction
• Typical high-grade value: $10,000 to $18,000+

Value depends heavily on:

• Condition
• Authenticity
• Professional grading

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🏦 How to Get Your Rare Penny Professionally Certified

If you believe you’ve found one, certification is essential.

Follow these steps:

Step 1: Never Clean the Coin ❌

Cleaning can permanently reduce value.

Step 2: Submit to a Professional Grading Service

Consider trusted companies like Professional Coin Grading Service or Numismatic Guaranty Company

Step 3: Follow Submission Instructions

Complete the grading form and securely ship your coin.

Step 4: Receive Official Certification

Once graded, your coin will receive an official holder and grade, increasing buyer trust and value.

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🧠 Expert Insight: Why This Penny Is So Rare

The rare 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny exists because of a mint transition.

In 1982, the mint switched from copper to zinc pennies to reduce costs. During this transition, a small number of copper blanks were mistakenly struck using the Small Date dies intended for zinc coins.

This production mistake created one of the most valuable modern pennies.

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💎 Collector Alert: Check Your Pennies Today

The rare 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny proves that valuable coins still exist in everyday circulation.

Take a few minutes to check your pennies carefully. A simple one-cent coin could be worth over $18,000. 🪙✨

Always verify:

• Date
• Mintmark
• Weight
• Small Date design

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