This 1982 Copper Penny Is Worth $10,000! You Could Find This Rare Penny In Your Pocket Change – Here’s What To Look For

by

Joshua

Hobbies & Crafts, Rare U.S. Coins

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Did you hear?… A rare 1982 copper penny is worth an astounding $10,000!

The good news is there may be more rare pennies out there just like it — and you could be the next person to find a rare copper penny in your pocket change.

The reason this particular 1982 copper penny value is so high is because it’s a rare 1982 small date penny.

What’s The 1982 Small Date Copper Penny Worth?

The first known 1982-D Small Date copper penny sold for $18,800 at a Stack’s Bowers auction on August 3, 2017 — no joke. A second one was discovered a short while later and sold for $10,800 in an April 25, 2019, Heritage Auctions sale.

Both coins have light wear and were found in circulation. In other words, this rare and valuable 1982 penny looks just like any other ordinary 1982-D Small Date penny you might find in your spare change.

Can you imagine… a penny worth $10,000 just floating around in circulation?

Of course, you’ve got to know what you’re looking for — because to the unaided eye, this rare penny might not look or feel any different than the highly common zinc 1982-D Small Date pennies.

How To Find The Rare 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny

You’re probably wondering if it’s easy to find a rare 1982 copper penny like this Small Date variety.

Only two have been discovered so far, but relatively few people take time to really search their 1982 pennies, too. The average circulated 1982 penny is worth 2 to 3 cents or less — so most people don’t think of these old pennies as having much value.

If you’re diligent, you might find a 1982-D Small Date copper penny or another valuable error coin like it. So, if you find a 1982 D penny, keep it!

And remember — the “D” mintmark from Denver MUST be under the date! If there’s no D mintmark on your 1982 penny, there’s no chance that it’s the rare one (sorry!).

You’ll also need weigh all of your 1982-D pennies. The most efficient, foolproof method is to check them each on a coin scale — which you can buy at a local big-box retail store or online for less than $20.

Checking the coin’s weight is the easiest way to determine whether a penny is made from a copper-based (brass, in this case) alloy or the copper-plated zinc composition that virtually all other 1982-D Small Date pennies are made from.

1982 Copper Penny vs. 1982 Zinc Penny Weights

Here’s how to tell the difference between a 1982 copper penny and a zinc penny:

  • 1982 copper pennies weigh approximately 3.11 grams
  • 1982 zinc pennies weigh about 2.5 grams

That said, copper and zinc pennies don’t always weigh those exact amounts. Here’s why:

A 1982 copper penny has a tolerance of 0.13 grams — meaning that it could weigh between 2.98 grams and 3.24 grams. A 1982 zinc penny has a tolerance of 0.10 grams — so an authentic one could weigh as little as 2.40 grams or as much as 2.60 grams.

1982 Small Date Penny vs. 1982 Large Date Penny Numerals

And what about the small date? How can you tell a 1982-D Small Date penny from a 1982-D Large Date penny?

You’ve got to check the alignment of the tops of each numeral in the date to see if you’ve got a small date or large date penny:

  • On a 1982-D Large Date penny, the tops of the “9” and “8” in the “1982” date will appear higher than the “1” and the “2”
  • On a 1982-D Small Date penny, the tops of all the numerals appear to be aligned, and the bottoms of the “1,” “8,” and “2” will also appeared in alignment.

Once you get used to looking at 1982 large date vs. small date pennies, you’ll be able to tell them apart from a mile away!

The Story Behind The Rare 1982 Copper Penny

Where did the valuable 1982 copper penny come from — and why is it so rare?

The 1982-D Small Date copper penny is known as a transitional error coin since it was minted from copper during a year when the United States Mint was beginning to make zinc pennies.

The US Mint switched from copper (more specifically, brass) to copper-plated zinc pennies — due to rising copper prices.

This wasn’t the first time the Mint had traded copper pennies in for a less-expensive type of penny. Less than a decade earlier, in 1973, the U.S. Treasury and Mint developed a less-expensive type of penny, and aluminum became the metal of choice.

The Mint struck more than 1.5 million 1974 aluminum pennies. While many were given to congresspersons and others for inspection, they were soon recalled when government officials decided the coins weren’t going to become official.

There were worries that the aluminum pennies wouldn’t show up on X-rays if they were swallowed by children, and the vending machine industry took aim at the new penny — which they claimed wouldn’t work without expensive overhauls to equipment across the country.

Copper prices also temporarily dropped, and the 1974 aluminum penny didn’t stick around. Yet, only a few short years later the debate rose again as copper prices soared. By 1981, the U.S. Treasury was back to work on creating a cheaper metal for the penny — and the copper-plated zinc composition was born.

The first zinc Lincoln cents, or Zincolns, were minted at the West Point Mint on January 7, 1982, and the last official business-strike copper pennies were made late in the year. The 1982 West Point zinc pennies have no mintmarks — so they look like Philadelphia pennies and can’t be distinguished from them.

Not including the 1982-D Small Date copper penny, the changes in composition and modifications to the appearance of the date means there are 8 other types of 1982 pennies:

  • 1982 Large Date copper penny
  • 1982 Small Date copper penny
  • 1982-D copper penny
  • 1982 Large Date zinc penny
  • 1982 Small Date zinc penny
  • 1982-D Large Date zinc penny
  • 1982-D Small Date zinc penny
  • 1982-S copper proof penny

With the addition of the 1982-D Small Date copper penny — which was made at the Denver Mint and has a “D” mintmark — there are now 9 known 1982 penny varieties.

It’s theorized that the 1982-D Small Date copper penny was created when a brass planchet, or prepared coin blank, was left in the Mint’s coin hopper by accident and was inadvertently fed into the coining presses.

At least two (and perhaps many more) were unknown — until the first one was discovered by Paul Malone on November 23, 2016. He found it while sorting his 1982 pennies. It was the first-ever reported discovery of a 1982-D Small Date penny.

What’s amazing about this coin is that it took nearly 35 years for it to be found. And what’s even more incredible still is that there are likely more out there just like it waiting to be discovered.

Maybe you will be the next person to find a 1982-D Small Date copper penny!

Why Is The Rare 1982 Copper Penny Worth So Much?

You’re probably wondering who would spend $10,000 to buy a 1982-D Small Date copper penny.

Actually, there are tons of people who want rare error coins like this penny. The US Mint isn’t supposed to make mistakes. So when it does (and creates neat coin errors like this 1982 penny error), everybody wants one!

However, since only one of these 1982 copper pennies has been found so far, there certainly aren’t many to go around. In fact, off-metal error pennies are very popular rare coins, and several have sold for well more than $10,000.

Here are a few other rare copper penny errors that you may find in pocket change:

The key is to search your spare change, rolls of coins, and other sources — and then weigh your pennies using a gram scale. Remember:

  • A brass penny should weigh about 3.11 grams.
  • A zinc penny is 2.5 grams.

Good luck, fearless penny collectors!

More Info About Rare Pennies

In addition to the links I’ve included above, here are some other resources to help you learn more about rare pennies worth money:

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1,219 thoughts on “This 1982 Copper Penny Is Worth $10,000! You Could Find This Rare Penny In Your Pocket Change – Here’s What To Look For”

  1. HI ok I’m looking at my penny’s and I found a coin that seems to be the one from this article. 1982 D Lincoln copper penny, wt 3.1 gr..
    I have had these penny’s for many years and I’m having a hard time believing my luck because I have more than one of these little jems. There must be a catch. Anyone have an idea where I might take it to for verification. Or know anything else I might be able to check them against?
    Try not to pop my bubble right away please.
    Thank you.

    Reply

    • Hi, Matt —

      As bronze was the regular composition used for U.S. one-cent coins in the late 1950s, it sounds like you have a regular-issue 1958-D Lincoln cent that is worth about 3 to 5 cents if it’s in worn condition.

      Nice find!
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Tiffany —

      If you drop the penny on a hard surface, such as a table top, the coin will make a small ringing sound if it’s copper and make a thud if it’s zinc. I can tell you, based on the shape and placement of the date, that this is a large date cent. As it’s worn, if it’s copper it’s worth 2 cents, and if it’s zinc it’s worth face value.

      Thank you for reaching out!
      -Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Leanne —

      I’m afraid this photo is a touch fuzzy — would you please resend with a clearer image, if possible, and the coin pictured upright so I can look at the diagnostic features correctly?

      Thank you,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Amber!

      Nice — it’s a copper 1982-D large date penny (not the small date, I’m sorry…). While it’s worth 2 cents for its copper value, I’m personally hanging on to all pre-1983 copper pennies, even the worn ones, in case copper pries rise.

      Keep searching! There really ARE super valuable coins out there…
      -Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Hwy14 —

      It would require a closer look at the coin in-hand, but this appears to be a possible minting error; the most likely explanation is a filled die error, where that part of the die was filled with grease or something else, obscuring the letters during strike. Depending on the date and condition, these pieces sometimes bring a very small premium (usually $1 to $2, at most, for modern worn Lincoln cents) among collectors who specialize in errors and varieties.

      What an interesting find!
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Hwy14 —

      This is a 1982-D Large Date copper cent (given its weight of 3.1 grams); these are common and, since this one is worn, is worth its copper value of 2 cents.

      By the way, I always save these!
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Adrian —

      This looks like a 1982-D Small Date Lincoln penny. Now we need to know if it’s made from primarily copper or zinc! Copper cents weigh around 3.11 grams whereas zinc pennies are about 2.5 grams.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

  15. Hey josh, I must say I enjoy your site. So thank you. What do you make of these? https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/8987d1d95b25cfcea398af85808fab50b83b7a028bc711302c5a6d6501d177e0.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/ce41d55d85a2c14d1e367b0da24771e6653c2c6cf45dc1f200c15bce3b9be2c2.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c4eac3f95e29309f9d2ca1a12d8d106f23cac89b9ef46f8ba334c453f7531574.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c7a01db2918da437a781c902736e4ab6e640431f6f840d9b554998cc9f7c1433.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/fed65b1f0f5a7952f577b0ad8284badb9586e4815d02907a8525c41879eb4d5a.jpg

    Reply

  16. Josh,
    If I wanted to share 20 pictures with you, is there another way of getting them to you without posting them all in this thread?

    Thank you,
    Murland

    Reply

    • Hi, Ronald —

      What you have is an 1851 large cent that was counterstamped after the coin left the Mint. Why it was counterstamped by a private individual I can’t say for certain. However, while some numismatists would simply view this coin as “altered,” there is an increasing segment of collectors who seek out this type of novelty material and may actually pay more for this coin BECAUSE of the stamp than if the 1851 large cent was normal and unaltered. My best guess is that this may have been a merchant’s markings so the coin could be used as a type of token or coupon. Or, it may have been counterstamped during the Civil War in Union territory as a type of patriotic piece.

      Readers: If YOU have any deeper knowledge on counterstamped coins such as this one, please feel free to chime in!

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Laci —

      It looks like your suspicions are correct. This is a 1982-D Large Date copper cent. It’s still worth hanging onto since it contains copper and is worth about 2 cents due to its intrinsic value. However, it’s not the rare and valuable 1982-D Small Date penny.

      Keep looking!
      Josh

      Reply

    • Ah, Kris!

      Yes, you may! And this 1982 Large Date penny, if it’s copper is worth two. Or, 2 cents, that is. If it’s zinc, it’s worth face value.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Mike —

      Yes, you’re correct in that they are all the same size, and these are the 1982-D Large Date cents, which are common and worth about 2 cents each if worn; I think a few of these, the ones near the top of the photo, are lower-end uncirculated specimens, which are worth closer to 5 or 10 cents each.

      You’ll note the “9” and “8” on these all are staggered higher than the “1” and “2” in the date. On the 1982-D Small Date, the tops of the date numerals are on about the same plane.

      I hope this info is helpful,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Paul —

      No worries — if you line a ruller up to the tops of the “1” and “2,” you’d see that the “9” and “8” would stick up beyond the ruler, as it does here. That means you have a large date variety. With the Small Date, the tops of all four numerals is virtually on the same plane. This piece, being a worn 1982-D Large Date copper cent, is worth about 2 cents. But do keep looking — this might seem like a wild goose chase, but there really are rarities out there…

      Good luck!
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Dimary —

      I can’t tell if these are copper or zinc without knowing their weights, but the two on the right appear to be small dates and the two on the left look like large dates — all from Philadelphia.

      If they’re copper they’re worth 2 cents each. The zinc are worth face value in this condition.

      Nice finds!
      Josh

      Reply

  26. https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/820bae57988429ae5edb59cd60d522e8e37b566eb888508ca065457e4f771d44.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/eb85ce81d8a9f42e06bfa00b3b1588e805da45c3436374e1027bc26205c1d679.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/1bcb722a92d14c08aa3897efed125f3b7d8868f48c8a8c8bd7810c2652b9e37b.jpg Hi Joshua,

    I was wondering if you could give me some more info on these pennies. I think they are small dates, but I’mt not sure. I have already weighed them and they all come in at 3.11 grams.

    Thanks,
    Chenese

    Reply

    • Hello, Chenese —

      I’m afraid these are all large dates. Note the tops of the “9” and “8” in the dates are taller than the “1” and “2.”

      On the bright side, they’re all copper cents, so each is worth about 2 cents for their metal content.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Amy —

      An uncirculated 1982-D Large Date zinc cent is one of the common varieties, but nice uncirculated ones like this are worth more than face value. I typically see pieces like this one sell for 25 cents to as much as a dollar.

      Nice find,
      Josh

      Reply

  28. I have a 1982 d penny that weights 3.10g. Can someone please tell me what I have and is it possible for this penny to be the one that everyone wants to find.

    Reply

    • Hello, Dimary —

      You have a 2000-P Sacagawea dollar coin. This is from the first year these so-called “golden” (mainly a copper-based metal composition) dollars were made. They circulated somewhat widely for a time but fell out of use. Worn examples such as this one are worth face value — but they’re so scarcely seen in circulation these days they become somewhat of a novelty to find anymore in pocket change.

      Best wishes!
      Josh

      Reply

        • Hi, Dimary —

          As far as the coin’s value and rarity, it’s common and worth face value, therefore “safe” to spend. Some people keep these coins because they are not seen in circulation much any more — but they’re not worth keeping in terms of value. So I suggest keeping it only if you enjoy the coin.

          Best wishes!
          Josh

          Reply

    • Hi, Gary —

      The 1982 copper small date penny is a common coin and, if it’s circulated, is worth about 2 cents for its metal value and 10+ cents if uncirculated.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

  32. I am pretty positive I have found a 1982 D small date copper penny as well as a large date copper one. I have only been collecting coins for about a year and I am not sure what the best place is to take these 2 pennies to have them looked at and possibly verified. I have a coin scale and both weigh 3.11 grams and obvious differences in the size of the dates. Any advice would be appreciated.

    Reply

  33. Hey Joshua, I have come across what I believe to be a mint technical error. As a novelty, do you think it would have any value? https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c0faf4ae36f68b8410c39f5b51f4a17a080a57277e4d65cb9cf5c0803a5f5f9a.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/f363e439d27bd296f8a89b0def33783469b5dabf1643a555c7817764bc4047b7.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c3651c7b8a0a2f5223c9b758fc3135afa457e2832824c1e3b1da25a4b4377f3a.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/69cd3aa5de5ab672718f7e9a7f7b02ab35d587160eae720353d2d25209bc95c2.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c15b14fac517523031d69e0abcf610bc8a726ca0ce655867db6aeba2a7c24e6c.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/1a3e41083e3cf7b7d904eb4d6d9d98d98a63027b01bb857a1bf07ac94b2bb635.jpg

    Reply

    • Hi, Hwy14 —

      I’m afraid that crater is post-Mint damage. It’s still an odd-looking coin that I’d probably be hanging on to myself if I found it.

      Thank you for reaching out,
      Josh

      Reply

    • HI, Tim —

      You have a 1982-D Small Date zinc cent. The splatters are due to poor bonding between the coin’s zinc core and copper outer layer. It seems this coin has a minor die clash. It also appears uncirculated. It’s hard to say for certain what this coin is worth — it has a lot of minor, but interesting, things going on with it. I could imagine someone who specializes in Lincoln cent errors and anomalies might pay a dollar or two for it — maybe even more. There isn’t a “book value,” for something like this, which is why this piece could either sell for about what I said or potentially more or less. I’d definitely hang on to it and if you want to sell it, seek out a Lincoln cent collector or coin error/variety collector.

      Really cool find!
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Ademar —

      Both are 1982-D Large Date pennies, as the “9” and “8” stand taller than the “1” and “2.” If they’re copper, they’re worth 2 cents each for their metal value.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hello, Ademar —

      I’m afraid the rare one is the 1982-D Small Date copper, not the Philadelphia version (no mintmark). This one is still worth double its face value due to its copper metal content.

      Still a nice find!
      Josh

      Reply

  39. I have this coin, I weighed them,I have three,and it was 3.2. I don’t know what my next step would be .1982 small date copper penny

    Reply

    • Good day, Teresa —

      I’m afraid this is a 1982-D Large Date cent. If it checks out as copper (3.11 grams, more or less), it’s still worth about 2 cents, or twice its face value, for its copper value.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hello, Jennifer –

      This is a 1982-D Large Date penny, as identified by the taller “9” and “8.” I wish you luck in finding the small date, in which the tops of the numerals are all aligned.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hey, SouthTampa Tom!

      ALL are large dates (common) EXCEPT for two: The 1982 cent second from the right in the second row down an the middle cent in the last row down.

      The 1982-D small date small date in the last row would have to be made from the 95% copper composition (weighing about 3.11 grams) for it to be the rare one, but it looks like you have the zinc one based on color and oxidation — do check that one to be sure though!

      Any of the coins here made from copper are worth keeping because their value is closer to 2 cents each for their metal content.

      Good luck,
      Josh

      Reply

      • Thanks Joshua.
        I’ve been throwing my pennies in a container for many years and I’ve got about a “gallon’ . I found these after going thru about a ‘pint’. I ordered a scale online today and hope I find some more.
        Merry Christmas.

        Reply

        • I wish you the best with your finds, Tom! There really are some cool and valuable coins to find in pocket change, rolls, and other forms of circulation if you know what to look for. Here are some more pennies to keep an eye on: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/valuable-pennies/

          Please let us know if you find anything interesting! Until then, Merry Christmas, too!

          Cheers,
          Josh

          Reply

          • Hi, Tom —

            The middle one is interesting… It weighs 2.8 grams? That’s a little higher than the tolerance for the zinc piece but not quite enough for the lower end of a bronze one. It is also a 1982-D Small Date (the others are Large Dates). The middle one does present discoloration consistent with a zinc composition.

            If it’s zinc, I’d say the only one worth more than face value is the rightmost one for its copper value. If you’ve got some money to spend on such things, you could always get the middle one certified to see if it’s some type of off-metal variety, but it’s doubtful. It looks like a zinc piece to me. Perhaps you could weigh it on a different scale and see if it comes back with the same 2.8-gram reading?

            Happy New Year!
            Josh

          • Wow, Tom… In this case, it might be worth having it evaluated in-hand by a third-party coin certification company to see if it might be an off-metal planchet. I still am not sure why it would register 2.8 grams, which is nowhere near either the zinc- or copper-based planchet tolerances.

            Happy New Year!
            Josh

  45. https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/8397da42afb2efe66d2a26a34705530834a2042cbdf2dab83456756dcfd39c58.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/43135faba6807244bcbfc9d3cba117ee3469404d2e5a73a39ddfdb5e84cd2d72.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/280d03cf4cf0a983827c45f1be126098d1aa06a26363c12cd89a9e7eb871a660.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/61cc08ddeae934eb96db3a8a554fc20e15a578011f8bd0ba9032952ef0a25505.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/580af3d6a4724d9a9207afca5513d1b497de7581aad807a98c76a0c6f2f5c85a.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/b0d1d41ebd425d8e8e8bcfe63ce7e94a2acc3f13bdf46815fb6e33540ade6ef3.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/8e4e887fd9d8c6d81f532b2baf20dcbe730f29f9c6cd18c9b2cbe5d82931eb58.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/dc6504f32558339ee6ff777a04f22be71218eb13bc16489e12e7bd046b4ef7ad.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/a1c8915be2f2750ab0f96767bb3d3c9ca4d33caa781c582886b0d7296d84a7f4.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/633b0c0cb3b305715ab921447628a9956281d421bc34d5ba5a1a1f622008ab16.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/202b5ee6031bd7336d34e789a4757639a22a1cadedf93b6ad35b6a68f9ebf0a7.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/b73bc64e77c2485947e989927eb9a671bd4ff59875c9a851e4e257a985496c03.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/148d8f3cb4db78cf1af3ed4a8edd8d50ebec9b28c1961f63eb7c1ecaba097958.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/b701e04e476c8819d3413f255d6574ff7d2c482ca8dc82536fa5de0b2fd79dcf.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/f5a3edbe2809ca10fde55b5a1c7b4aacafcc22aee493dca6e1482818b83c52a3.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/b73bc64e77c2485947e989927eb9a671bd4ff59875c9a851e4e257a985496c03.jpg

    Reply

  46. I have a mason jar full of 1982 copper penny and yes I have a scare and weighed the coins to make sure they are copper not zinc. One thing I would like to pursue is finding a D-small date with all the coins I have.

    Reply

    • Good luck, Brenda! People have already newly discovered rare coins in their pocket change jars. Maybe you’ll be the next!

      Cheers!
      Josh

      Reply

  47. I have a1982 copper small date 3.5 grams. Not a scratch on it. Beautiful coin. Where would I go to sell it? Also a gorgeous 1959

    Reply

        • Thanks bro i have found like 20 1982 small date and large date pennies but only one small of each I’m sure. But check this out i found these 1964 dd with visible doubling but 2 of which have what I’m about to show u. It had the repunchment mark on the reverse side. Just found out that only one had been found and sold in aug 2014 for $4,015 i will send u better pics later on https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/16d26573afe9a8f14ef056a2aab43850a9d8d71a3982d44548c368a6e37370f1.jpg. I’m just to busy i found 8 1970 (no S ) mint mark and 5: 1992 d close AM. Once I’m sure I will take pics and see what u think ok

          Reply

          • Hey, Vic!

            While the photo is a tad fuzzy on my end, I’m hoping this checks out. Yes, you said it well — the tiniest evidence of a doubled die, a die crack, or anything else can make an otherwise ordinary coin worth many times more. I’ll be happy to take a look at the pics and see if I can help shed any light on what you have.

            Cheers,
            Josh

          • Hey, Vic —

            Where are you finding the info on the “rare” 1982-D Small Date zinc cent? While there is a very rare 1982-D Small Date copper cent, which we write about here at The Fun Times Guide.com and others have mentioned to from auction listings, the 1982-D Small Date zinc cent is actually the common variety. Is there something else you’ve found about the 1982-D zinc small date that make some of them rare?

            Thank you for any info you can provide,
            Josh

      • Thanks so much Vic, this site is so much nicer than the other one. Those guys talk to people like they’re idiots when they’re just trying to learn

        Reply

        • Hey i learned by watching videos online studying the coins I’m looking for it helps if you have a good magnifier cause the slightest double dye, crack or mistake can make a regular coin worth a lot of money and sometimes u find that one coin that makes all the hard work and dedication worth while. It’s way better to follow these steps. Get your coin graded then if let’s say prime example u find the million dollar coin don’t just try to sell it to anyone u just met on YouTube for peanuts because u might bring down the value in a failed attempt cause 9times out of 10 they’re trying to rob u at him point and u might think because I their pics they’re wearing Armani that’s what a real gangster looks like. Telling u because it almost happened to me but I’m not a push over I always came prepared bit not no more. It’s Better setting up a big auction with a well known auction house that deal in coins and gems and stuff like Stack & bowers they will contact all the top bidders in the game and u go online and put the wordout on all the sites. Cause the last thing u want is someone with a lot of money buying all the publicity so they could out bid the regular buyers looking to score a rare coin for cheap. I’m only telling u because it happens not all the time but there are those movie moments

          Reply

        • Hello, Carla!

          Really appreciate your kind feedback! At The Fun Times Guide, there’s no such thing as a “dumb question” — we’re all here to learn together and become better, more educated coin collectors!

          Cheers,
          Josh @ TheFunTimesGuide

          Reply

    • A 1982-D copper that weighs 3.5 grams? That’s about .4 grams more than is standard and leaves me wondering if it may have been struck on a foreign planchet of some sort. May I see a photo of this coin?

      If you’re interested in selling it, you might try looking on the list of coin dealers who belong to the Professional Numismatic Guild (PNG): https://png.memberclicks.net/find-a-png-dealer

      Here’s more info on looking for a good coin dealer: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/coin_dealer/

      Please post a photo of the 1982 copper cent if you can so I can try to further advise!

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

  48. Hello, Ni’Chelle!

    Thank you for your wonderful feedback and for reaching out. These are all large dates, and the way I can tell they’re large dates is the tops of the “9” and “8” stand taller than the “1” and “2.” On the small date, the tops of all four numerals all roughly lay on the same plane. If these are copper, they’re still worth about 2 cents each for their copper value.

    Nice finds!
    Josh

    Reply

  49. Hi Josh,
    I have two 1982 -D copper pennies. I found the a few days ago. And I would appreciate you help identifying the date size. I believe one is large date and the other is small. I’m hoping I’m right . I really enjoyed your article.thank you for all the great info. I tried to up load the pictures. But keep getting an error. Is there another way or place I can up load them to?

    Reply

    • Hi, William —

      This is a 1982-D Large Date, as the “9” and “8” exceed the height of the “1” and “2.”

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hello, Emmanuel —

      This is a 1982-D Large Date — note how the “9” and “8” exceed the height of the “1” and “2.” It’s still worth 2 cents as a copper cent.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Murland….

      Hmm… 2.3 grams? That’s a bit low. If the reading is correct, it might be worth sending in for an in-hand evaluation.

      I also seem to see minor doubling on the obverse; I think it’s machine doubling.

      If you’re interested in getting this coin inspected by a third-party coin grading company, here’s an article with a list of the major graders: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/slabbed_coins/

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Murland —

      Yes, it’s a 1945-S with porous surfaces probably caused by being dipped in acid or another caustic agent. It’s worth its copper value, or about 2 cents.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • HI, Murland —

      This looks like a normal 1948 nickel from what I see — it’s worth 7 to 10 cents in this grade.

      Best,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Murland —

      I think at 3.32 grams, this piece is quite a bit heavier than normal and might be worth having evaluated in-hand for more info on why that might be.

      Good luck,
      Josh

      Reply

    • I hope so, Rhonda! Please post pictures of the coin — on a scale, too, if you can. This is exciting…

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

  58. i have this penny actually i have 2 1982 plain small date pennies that weigh 3.1 grams and i have a 1982 d that weighs 3.1..I had a dream that several people that didn’t know were trying to buy a penny from and the dream was very vivid .So i got up that morning and started going thru my penny jug the time i started was 4:45 am and it was 10:00 am when i found them.

    Reply

    • Hi, Mark —

      Cool finds, and what a fun-sounding dream! While the rare 1982 penny is the one that also has a “D” mintmark from Denver AND weighs 3.1 grams, any and all copper pennies are becoming scarce as more and more people pull them from circulation!

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hello, Samantha —

      While this is indeed a 1982-D copper cent, it’s unfortunately a common large date and not the small date. I can tell this because the “9” and “8” in the date stand taller than the “1” and “2.” It’s not totally bad news… The coin’s valuable copper content means it’s worth about 2 cents instead of just 1 cent.

      Best wishes, and please don’t hesitate to reach out in the future with more coin questions!

      Cheers,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Louis —

      These are both 1982-D copper large dates, which are common and worth about 2 cents each. The 1982-D copper small date, on the other hand, are extremely rare and worth about $15,000 apiece. On a small date, the tops of the “9” and “8” are the same height as the “1” and “2.” On these coins pictured above, the “9” and “8” exceed the height of the “1” and “2.”

      Good luck!
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hello, Guillaume

      This is a 1982-D Large Date, which I can tell because the “9” and “8” extend higher than the “1” and “2.” Therefore this is one of the common 1982-D cents, but as it’s copper it’s worth about two cents.

      Thank you for reaching out!
      Josh

      Reply

  63. I am buying a gram scale! I appreciate your insight! Out of curiosity have you heard of a 1982 small date no mint Mark with a off center face side? The back is aligned perfect but the front has a thicker rim on one side and Lincoln is very hard to see on the back

    Reply

    • Hi, Jennifer —

      Would you please submit a couple photos of your 1982 cent so I can verify that it’s the rare variety and then follow up with what you should do next?

      Thank you!
      -Josh

      Reply

    • Is it the Denver one? I have (2) copper 1982 D pennies. They are both different but the 2 does not have the very swan like appearance, however the lines on the printing are thin and the mint marks line up differently under the date? Maybe I have another 1 of a kind hunh?Wish I could send enlarged photo!

      Reply

      • Hi,

        Yes, there have been some reports of seeming inconsistencies in the shape of the “2.” However, at this point only the definite 1982-D bronze small date — in which the tops of the numbers are all at the same plane — has been identified as rare.

        I hope to see a photo when you get the chance!

        Thank you,
        Josh

        Reply

    • Hi, Maple —

      Those are post-Mint counterstamps put there by someone outside of the Mint. While they’re considered alterations, some people collect such novelty coins. What the marking are, I can’t tell. They appear to be a church or government building, but which, I can’t tell.

      This is a neat find, and one I suggest keeping.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Shane —

      What you have is a 1982-D Large Date copper cent — not the rare 1982-D Small Date. How can I tell? For starters, the “9” and “8” appear higher than the “1” and “2.” The shape of the “2” is also indicative of a Large Date “2.”

      This piece is still worth about double its face value for its copper content, but unfortunately it is not a 1982-D Small Date copper cent.

      Keep looking!
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hello,

      I’m sorry, but I’m not sure what you’re referring to here. Is there a photo you were attaching to this comment with the coins in question? I look forward to helping more if possible.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

  68. Do the 1982 d large date weigh the same as the small date 1983 d penny I’m asking cause I got about 10 1982 d penny’s that weigh 3 grams and a little bit over let me know if anybody got info on this

    Reply

    • Hi, Lana —

      There are two types of 1982-D large dates — the bronze (which weigh about 3.11 grams) and the zinc-based (2.5 grams). All 1983-D pennies SHOULD be zinc and weigh 2.5 grams, but there have been known reports of 1983 pennies made from bronze, weighing in at 3.11 grams.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Shane —

      Would you please provide a really clear close up of the “AM” so I can further advise? Thank you!

      Hope to help further,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Shane —

      Thank you for the additional images. What I’m looking to see is if the bottoms of the “A” and “M” appear to touch each other. I can’t seem to tell in this photograph… If you don’t mind providing an additional image really close up of the “A” and “M” I can further advise.

      Thanks!
      Josh

      Reply

      • I’ve looked at the picture and magnified it here on my computer, and it looks like a wide am. I could be wrong. From my spreadsheet, I gather it would have been nice if this was a CloseAM.

        Reply

    • Hello, Jodi —

      Yes, these are 1982 small date cents. If the 1982-D small date cents pictured weigh about 3.11 grams they would need to be authenticated to ensure they are the real deal and, if they are, could be worth $10,000 to $15,000 or more each. However, the zinc variety, which weighs about 2.5 grams is the common variety and is worth face value if worn. Copper 1982 small date cents from Philadelphia (no mintmark) are common and worth about 2 cents for their copper value.

      Thanks for reaching out,
      Josh

      Reply

  74. I have 29 1982 Copper Large Date 3.1 grams
    4 1982 Copper Small Date 3.1 grams
    2 1982-D Copper
    1 1982 Zinc 2.5 grams Small Date
    1 1982 Zinc 2.5 grams Large Date

    I am having trouble sending the photos
    Is there an email I can send them too? I would like to find out where I can sell the 2 1982-D Copper

    Reply

    • Hi, Randy —

      All communications will need to be done here on The Fun Times Guide coin forum. Based on your list, the only coins that may be the potential 1982-D Small Date copper rarity are the two listed as “1982-D copper,” which aren’t designated as being either “Small Date” or “Large Date.”

      Any of the other copper pieces you listed are worth about two cents for their copper value.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

      • Thank you Josh, those two coins are in fact small date, I am sure of it, I have been studying the 82s for a couple months now so as to not embarrass myself, and I have become quite good at identifying the Large Date and the small date, I have watched numerous videos on the 1982-D Copper Small Date and I am 99.9 percent sure of myself. Please tell me where I should go from here if I want to auction them. Thank You

        Reply

        • Hi, Randy —

          If you’re interested in auctioning off any coins, your first step should be to get the coins encapsulated by a reputable third-party company like PCGS, NGC, ANACS, or ICG. They will ensure the coins are authenticated and properly graded. Assuming the coins check out as 1982-D Small Date bronze cents, this can help raise the chance your coins will be accepted for consignment and receive a higher price.

          Here’s info on grading firms: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/slabbed_coins/
          And here’s info on selling your coins via auction or other methods: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/coins_for_sale/

          Good luck!
          Josh

          Reply

        • Hi, Randy —

          The difficulty might have to do with the size of the photo. Generally, photos over 2MB won’t load correctly here…

          I hope this helps solve the issue!
          Josh

          Reply

  75. Unfortunately your image upload failed. Please verify that your image is in a supported format (JPEG, PNG, or GIF) and under 5MB. If you continue seeing this error, please try again later.

    Reply

    • Hello, Kashif Aziz —

      Based on the info you provided and the photos, you have a copper 1982-D large date cent. These are common (it’s not the rare small date variety – I am sorry!) but is worth about double its face value due to the valuable copper content.

      Nice coin,
      Josh

      Reply

      • Thank you for your kind reply, just need to understand on what basis you are recommending this i mean the weight is accurate ya i also doubting numeral order. could your please elaborate….

        Reply

    • Hello, Austin Woo James —

      I just saw the photos… While this is a beautiful 1982-D copper cent that appears to be in uncirculated condition, it is a large date – the “8” and “9” are taller than the “1” and “2.” Only the 1982-D small date, on which the tops of the date numerals are the same height, is rare.

      Your coin, however, is worth st least 2 cents for its copper value and if it’s indeed uncirculated perhaps 10 or 20 cents.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hello, Allen —

      I’m afraid this is a 1982-D large date cent, not the rare small date. On the small date, the tops of the numerals are all aligned, whereas here the “9” and “8” are taller than the “1” and “2.”

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hello, Richard!

      We really appreciate your most kind feedback. I just triple-checked your 1982 cents, and while they’re all in relatively nice condition, all are large dates — the “9” and “8” exceed the height of the “1” and “2.”

      Keep looking – and don’t give up!
      -Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Marsha!

      No worries… The differences between a large date and small date are distinct but very minor. This is a 1982-D large date, and I can tell first because the “9” and “8” extend beyond the imaginary line spanning across the top of the “1” and “2,” the shape of the serif and line in the “2,” and overall width of the date numerals.

      Keep on looking! You may find the next 1982-D small date…

      Best,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Mark —

      This is a large date, and I can tell because the “9” and “8” exceed past the “1” and “2” in the date.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

  91. https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c907ab163f47f1fff5ff91788d0c2bef6d92e8db948d21394945ee5334694037.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c3f7cd048304d3cb7013a50a56d442cde161092c1a5dbdc956103d97e3b3c554.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/bcffd004993b154578a09c24b89947fb83b6caf2bc7031bd23b368d5c366e77c.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c907ab163f47f1fff5ff91788d0c2bef6d92e8db948d21394945ee5334694037.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/1d42e5f2523535eb687806c445ab337c0a5b515723a88280d2bec1a3c87c1a2c.jpg

    Reply

    • Hi, Alex —

      All of the 1982-D Lincoln cents featured in this series of images are large dates… But keep doing what you’re doing! Hopefully you find one!

      Good luck,
      Josh

      Reply

  92. https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/3491309a2a97e272d2640b293d451ef3f75c882097c5ad004f421174786daf6e.png

    Firslt i want to thank you very much for the quick response. I just wanted to clarify the 1 coin i tgink could be a canidate The one posted on NGC when I look up the 1 trye penny on google is the first pic then the one I’m looking at…….. mine is much more worn rounded rim and all the 3.105…. but look at the 8 compared to the 9 then the straight alignment on top, How sharp they are even when worn down just thought I’d clairify thanks again 😉

    https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/ac094647a460cfc5859a3681e7fa657f3a7c85385a2ee9d24944a2578f607e1a.png

    Reply

    • You’re most welcome, Alex! And when I in doubt on alignment, you can always check for other diagnostics, such as curvier “2” (on the small date) and also the smaller loop atop the “8.”

      Have a great day,
      Josh

      Reply

  93. Josh you are correct…. top hole on the 8 too small, no curve to to the 2. At least I know what to look for now thanks 😉

    Reply

    • Exactly! Hopefully you’ll be able to put this knowledge to use soon on finding some more 1982-D small dates!

      Cheers,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Alex —

      This photo is a bit blurry and I can’t tell for sure but the date SEEMS shaped like a small date here. Please re-take a clearer photo of this coin and describe its weight in grams! I’ll be glad to assist further.

      Thanks,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Melissa —

      I’m afraid both of these 1982-D Lincoln cents are large dates, which I can tell because the tops of the “9” and “8” in the date are taller than the “1” and “2.”

      If copper, these are still worth about two cents apiece for their metal value.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hey, John —

      I’m sorry, but if you look closer you’ll see gaps between the line and the tops of the “1” and “2.” This is a 1982-D large date, but keep looking!

      Good luck,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, John —

      This is a 1982-D large date cent, which is a common variety. 1982-D small date cents, which show the tops of the numerals in the date along the same plane, are the rare ones.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hello, Gluetube —

      Yes, this IS a 1982 bronze small date, but the rare one is a 1982-D small date — with the mintmark. You’re on the right track!

      Good luck!
      -Josh

      Reply

    • Hello, Alma —

      While your 1982 cent is indeed bronze, it is a large date — not a rare small date. I can tell because the “9” and “8” exceed the height of the “1” and “2.” Your piece is still worth about 2 cents for its bronze content value.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

  104. Oh come on! The major difference between the between the pennies is in the actual shape of the number ‘2’ itself that was used in the minting process. The valuable cent has a wide sweeping curve [as you move down the numeral to the left-to-right straight line that is the base of the drawn number], whereas the common one moves in a straight line before it joins the base – the base of this ‘common’ cent has a slight curve in it’s base NOT to be confused with the sweeping curve noted in the middle if the valuable small-date cent.

    To the author of this post I say: Poorly written work, not up to your known abilities…

    Reply

    • Hi, Alex —

      I appreciate your feedback on this… Having worked with many collectors on showing them the differences between the two coins, the large date and small date, the most obvious thing they will look for, in my experience working with the skill level of newer collectors, is the size of the two middle date numerals in comparison to the outer. It’s also the most obvious diagnostic marker when a coin is being viewed by itself without another for comparison. While a newbie isn’t going to necessarily know how “curvy” a curved “2” should look, they can usually tell if the digits align — or don’t align — at the top of the numerals. The diagnostics you describe are indeed correct, but most of the folks reading this post aren’t as trained in comparing the shaping of the curves of the two “2” numerals versus the much more obvious size differences of the numerals themselves. Another diagnostic, of course, is the distance of the “2” from the rim, but again — relative to what? It would take a collector a longtime to train himself or herself in looking for the differences between the large dates and small dates.

      I really appreciate you adding your information and keen insight to this conversation — thank you!

      Cheers,
      Josh

      Reply

  105. https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/172eabd061df778aeec496c9932d2b50cbbf52201f34b21179ae536dff7c04b0.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/3aa9beb5212d64fa29d66075d0afbca116375a07b42564d7cdd4a7618128c093.jpg Just inherited a coin collection from an estate and am a complete
    newbie. The collection has coins, paper, and foreign currency. I’m
    starting off slow with the pennies and came across a collection of
    1982’s. There were several 1982-D’s but this one looks to me to be a
    small date. What do you think? First picture is in sunlight, second picture is in shade. Don’t have a scale to measure the
    weight but if it helps, this one seems to be thinner when I hold it up
    next to a regular penny.

    Reply

    • Hi, Dawn —

      Both of these 1982-D cents are indeed small dates — great eye! I know you don’t have a scale but I think it’s worth buying a gram scale to see if what you have here is the rare bronze cent. Unfortunately both zinc-based and bronze 1982 cents are struck to the same thickness variances, so it’s hard to tell just based on the thickness of the coin itself.

      I’ll be glad to assist further… Thank you for reaching out!

      Best,
      Josh

      Reply

      • Thanks so much for your speedy reply, Josh! Yes, I indeed ordered a gram scale yesterday knowing I have so many coins to work my way through. In addition to the small date 1982-D, I have about 5 large dates and about 100+ other 1982’s. Not to mention the other blue booked and rolled pennies, nickles, dimes, quarters, half dollars, silver dollars and foreign and commemorative coins and paper money I need to sort through. I’m sure I will seek your expertise in the future and will definitely keep you posted on this particular penny. Thanks again, and have a great day!

        Reply

        • My pleasure, Dawn! Please let us know what the scale reveals on the 1982 cents and if you have any other questions, please feel free to reach out.

          Best wishes,
          Josh

          Reply

          • Well, my scale just came in the mail. Unfortunately, the weight is 2.5 grams so guess I’ll have to keep searching. Are any other 1982 cents worth anything great? Just wondering why this collector kept so many of the 1982’s.

          • Hi, Dawn —

            There are always doubled dies, repunched mintmarks, off-center strikes, die breaks, and the other garden-variety errors and varieties that have been found on some 1982 cents. Maybe some of these things you’d already have seen by now on the coins you have if you’ve checked, though I’d look again for the more minute things like doubled dies, die breaks, and repunched mintmarks. Why the other collector saved 1982 cents? Who knows… Maybe they were looking fort the bronze D-mint, too? Or 1982 was a sentimental year?

            Please let me know if I can help you any further!

            Good luck,
            Josh

    • Hi, Will —

      The 1982 cent will need to have both a small date AND a “D” mintmark from Denver…

      But the good news is your bronze cent is worth at least two cents for its copper value!

      Thank you for reaching out,
      Josh

      Reply

  110. Josh I have quarter dollar 1974 40% silver ,5.24 grams , I need help with this coin , nobody know about these error . ???

    Reply

    • Hi, Alex —

      A 40% silver quarter should weigh closer to 5.75 grams. Yours sounds too light to have been struck on a 40% silver planchet. May I please see a couple clear photos of your coin?

      Thanks,
      Josh

      Reply

  111. I have years with this coin and I was looking about , but I don’t get nothing… maybe is a rare error or very rare coin to find

    Reply

  113. Hey Joshua, I’ve been informed by an “expert” that except for the large die-chip on the 9, this is a normal coin. What do you see here? Thanks https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/e244fad8751684e6e2ab65f44c1a3d9183cd61974ef0bb5880e6eb581574b465.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/6c18719954664537e6b6c2f058561a83bc3527a5c3d43001db01e39dffb2bcc0.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/b762efeed787bcfb3185b944ddd62bad33987f3b82fcf5aefeee5e978f29ed3a.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/3cef5fae40859e76a4597c7b38533ae110fe55aa365db207e5358007d440c683.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/dd57ea0e4ba24177b73872392a6fa8c15437b476a2a5ba6af6a23a4ff10f47e2.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/778e5257ce58a93acbdf094f4d185bca5d6e44982c999f748339c44571cb8543.jpg

    Reply

    • Hello, Hwy145 —

      I see the die chip in the “9,” and the numbers and lettering look a little rough to me, though that isn’t unusual. I’m afraid I don’t see anything else in these photos. What do you see on this coin in-person? Something that maybe others aren’t catching in the photos?

      Thank you,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hello, Lindsey!

      Good eye — yes, this is a 1982-D large date. Among other diagnostics, the “9” and “8” extend above the “1” and “2.”

      Good luck in finding a 1982-D bronze small date!
      -Josh

      Reply

  115. Hi joshua! I have many rare coins , Lincoln cent 1982 double edge up!!! And Lincoln cent 1987 posible double die . And you can see the edge line on the liberty letter and double edge too. One dime 1975 no mark maybe proof??? And very rare dime 2000, nice color like bronze!!! See carefully bro!! Thanks! https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/627752e16779d6de920fc244297f288bcb007e0f0a59e31cca87ada904e432c4.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/2c9c84c5342fd021d3c721e5c757a704eeb07ca895ce57a44abb98bfeddde805.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/63d465c663a0ed85c0728addefb5c27ef96e13c574bf8c5648d3c43a4b892977.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/4992b901cbf997e42b02e55a3f6fe9cbcf1b989f8b232340a4196bd396785361.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/b0cdcb3d45789b0407d0737ecc6b634c5a42cb0ae39bb0f2a3dcfbf152d76ecf.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c34b4de68f0732a6e0f4992ad8279597c9386b9bdaf12a2685a28fa80fd78838.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/7a6553a252818cd14b925f50883bc6e550ef22b018be0a8aa741dff0cfbe891d.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/7a6553a252818cd14b925f50883bc6e550ef22b018be0a8aa741dff0cfbe891d.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/bd7039f7c39ff465f3f8c57049f95651d46fcd9cda55548673ce62a93e3639ee.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/7a6553a252818cd14b925f50883bc6e550ef22b018be0a8aa741dff0cfbe891d.jpg

    Reply

    • Hey, Alex —

      I’m afraid the 1975 Roosevelt dime is not a proof but rather a regular-issue piece from Philadelphia. The 1982 Lincoln cent is a Philadelphia large date with appears to be a rim finning — a common error not really worth much, if anything, over face value, but nonetheless one worth holding aside. The 1987 Lincoln cent does seem to have some rim problems. It looks to me like it may be post-mint damage, but I think I do see signs of a die break along the left side of the obverse. Very interesting… The 2000 Roosevelt dime is cool looking, but the bronze color is discoloration is caused by environmental damage. It may be due to exposure to sulfur fumes. It’s safe to spend as money or a pretty neat-looking coin to keep. Your call!

      Cheers,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Amanda —

      I’m afraid I don’t see a photo of this coin accompanying the comment so I’m not sure. Would you please kindly re-upload it here?

      Thank you,
      Josh

      Reply

        • Hi, Amanda —

          All of my correspondence will need to be done through the comments forum here. I’m just trying to think aloud… If the photo is a JPG or PNG file under less than 5 MB it should upload. It can also be a screenshot saved as a JPG. Just some thoughts that might help with the file.

          Good luck! I hope I can help further…
          -Josh

          Reply

    • Hey, Alex!

      Yes, this is a real 90% silver 1963 Washington quarter worth at least $3.50 or more in its silver value alone. At the resolution of this photo I can’t tell if it’s a double die, but it appears to be a coin in a higher circulated grade — maybe About Uncirculated. That’s worth at least $4.

      Where do you see the doubling on this coin?

      I hope I can help further with this one…
      -Josh

      Reply

    • Hey, Alex —

      In 1968, the San Francisco (S) mint struck both proof and uncirculated pennies. This is an uncirculated strike that is worth about 15 to 20 cents.

      Nice find!
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Mark Kenny —

      This is a 1982-D large date penny, which I can tell because the “9” and “8” are taller than the “1” and “2” in the date.

      Good luck finding the small date!
      Josh

      Reply

  123. Hi Josh,
    Does it look like to you that this 2018 penny have doubling on the nose, forehead, and doubling in the letters on both sides of the coin? I tried to compare to wexler and my eyes started hurting. LOL

    Thank you in advance, https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/a7e9bb482fc4f5898b87bc4e7ff825b783dfcfa1a1b98b4a4b0ed96653d4d7ff.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/20e8a91e465b3f32d58b9a9cc574e68e1606a32b15c1047c876733f10054c5dc.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/a2a9f5d9c05aa418bf139535e776bc098bb6b170afb7c3698da5aeb1b8dff20c.jpg

    Reply

    • Hi, Tee —

      I do see some light doubling on this one… It looks like machine doubling, which is an effect of the minting process and not due to the die being doubled. A general rule of thumb is that if a coin has doubling on BOTH sides of the coin and the doubling appears light and slightly smeared the surface, then it is usually machine doubling. This piece would have little to no additional value above face but is nevertheless worthwhile holding aside as a neat example of machine doubling.

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

  124. Hi Josh,
    I swear if one day you say one of my coins are worth over 10,000 dollars and I sell it, I will donate some funds to your blog because you are a great help. This is a 1978 Quarter. The first pic looks like a P embedded in the A in America. The second Pic looks like the R has a die break. The third pic looks like the wing has a rod going thru it. Thank you.

    https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/873ac2f684feb1c03ff87c8acf3e28b96f465d4d2cfcdfa82313f72230feb794.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/15e14b8899b50275c03027a87ff2f238f0c303672972cc1647d26e12d17d8265.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/4dc05cd07f508d4ca9aaa999548313dd9ec85c3eaa6e61c706f79c728a4df60a.jpg

    Reply

    • You’re too kind, Tee! Thank you for your awesome comments. I do believe I see a minor die break here based on the photos. Not a $10k die break (maybe a couple dollars). But I’d hold it aside should it check out in an in-hand evaluation.

      Keep searching, my friend!
      -Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Jake —

      I’m afraid these are both large-date 1982 cents… The tops of the “9” and “8” on these coins exceed the height of the “1” and “2.” Do keep looking though… Many people from this forum have found scarce coins in circulation! Maybe you’ll be the next one!

      Good luck,
      Josh

      Reply

  126. I thought it was i used a plotter to see if the numbers lined up. How about this one I am about to go get it weighed now I thought it was a good one and i looked on the list about the 989-D Lincoln Cent
    Struck on a 3.1 gram Copper Planchet
    Pre-1983 Cent Planchet https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/050c0b7ed0cfed9925398ced2b444bd1f3dedec6913ead7399ea61f9e01b028c.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/0092ac90dd6b8d1c1def18974aad9d0173973f9e17a7822d92a9ff207b550644.jpg

    Reply

    • Hi, Jake —

      It looks like a zinc cent to me based on the surface details; you’ll need to weigh it to confirm though. Hopefully it comes in around 3.11 grams!

      Best wishes,
      Josh

      Reply

    • Hi, Jake —

      You have a regular 1979 penny that has been counterstamped with the mason symbol. While the coin did NOT leave the US Mint this way, this is one of the more common and collectible types of private counterstamps around. Masonic pennies are commonly given as gifts to masons, or those considering entry into the society. I’ve seen these trade for between $1 and $10 apiece, though older masonic pennies with vintage logos and stamps go for $20 or more sometime. This piece shows an older stamp. Based on what I’ve seen in my experience I’d think the value of this is closer to the $5 mark, though as with anything else value depends on how much someone is willing to pay for it.

      Really cool find,
      Josh

      Reply