1982 Small Date Lincoln Penny on Copper Planchet Valued at $18,000 – Plus 6 Coins Still in Circulation
In the world of numismatics, certain coins hold exceptional value due to their rarity, historical significance, or minting errors. One such coin is the 1982 Small Date Lincoln penny struck on a copper planchet, which has fetched prices up to $18,000 at auction. Additionally, several other coins currently in circulation are highly sought after by collectors and can command impressive sums.
The 1982 Small Date Lincoln Penny on Copper Planchet
In 1982, the U.S. Mint transitioned from producing pennies with a predominantly copper composition (95% copper, 5% zinc) to a copper-plated zinc format to reduce manufacturing costs.
During this transitional period, multiple varieties of pennies were produced, including Large Date and Small Date versions in both copper and zinc compositions.
The 1982-D (Denver Mint) Small Date penny struck on a copper planchet is particularly rare. This rarity likely resulted from a few copper planchets being mistakenly used after the mint had switched to zinc.
The first known specimen of this error was discovered in 2016 and sold for $18,800 at a Stack’s Bowers auction in August 2017. A second example sold for $10,800 in April 2019.
Identifying the 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny
To determine if you possess this valuable coin, consider the following steps:
- Mint Mark: Ensure the penny has a “D” mint mark below the date, indicating it was minted in Denver.
- Date Style: The Small Date variety features numerals that are evenly aligned at the top, with the “8” appearing more delicate and the “2” having a slight curl.
- Weight: Copper pennies weigh approximately 3.11 grams, whereas zinc pennies weigh about 2.5 grams. Using a precise scale can help determine the composition.
Other Valuable Coins Still in Circulation
Beyond the 1982-D Small Date copper penny, several other coins in circulation are of significant value:
1972 Lincoln Cent (Double Die Obverse)
These pennies exhibit noticeable doubling of the date and inscriptions on the obverse side. Values can range from $300 to over $1,000, depending on condition.
1999 Wide “AM” Reverse Lincoln Cent
In this variety, there is a noticeable gap between the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse side. These coins can be worth from $150 to over $500.
1983 Lincoln Cent (Double Die Reverse)
Featuring doubling on the reverse inscriptions, these pennies can fetch between $250 and $400.
1969-S Lincoln Cent (Double Die Obverse)
This rare error coin shows significant doubling on the obverse and can be worth from $10,000 to over $70,000.
1995 Lincoln Cent (Double Die Obverse)
With clear doubling on the obverse inscriptions, these coins are valued between $20 and $50, though pristine examples can command higher prices.
2004 Wisconsin State Quarter (Extra Leaf Error)
Some of these quarters feature an additional leaf on the corn stalk on the reverse side, known as the “Extra Leaf High” or “Extra Leaf Low” varieties. These can be worth from $50 to over $1,000.
Table of Valuable Coins in Circulation
| Coin Description | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny | $10,000 – $18,000 |
| 1972 Lincoln Cent (Double Die Obverse) | $300 – $1,000+ |
| 1999 Wide “AM” Reverse Lincoln Cent | $150 – $500+ |
| 1983 Lincoln Cent (Double Die Reverse) | $250 – $400 |
| 1969-S Lincoln Cent (Double Die Obverse) | $10,000 – $70,000+ |
| 1995 Lincoln Cent (Double Die Obverse) | $20 – $50+ |
| 2004 Wisconsin Quarter (Extra Leaf Error) | $50 – $1,000+ |
Tips for Coin Collectors
- Examine Your Change: Regularly inspect your pocket change for these and other anomalies.
- Use Proper Equipment: A magnifying glass and a precise scale are essential tools for identifying valuable coin varieties.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with numismatic news and auctions to stay aware of current market values and emerging discoveries.
