Coin collecting is an exciting hobby, especially when you come across a rare find. Some coins hold significant value due to their rarity, minting errors, or historical importance. One such coin that has gained attention recently is the 1982 Small Date Lincoln Penny on Copper Planchet, which has sold for as much as $18,000 at auctions. Along with this rare penny, there are also other valuable coins still in circulation today that collectors seek. In this article, we will take a closer look at the 1982 Small Date Lincoln Penny and other coins that could make you rich if you’re lucky enough to find them.
The 1982 Small Date Lincoln Penny on Copper Planchet
In 1982, the U.S. Mint switched from producing pennies with a high amount of copper (95%) to pennies made of mostly zinc. This change was made to save money on production costs. However, during this time, there were some mistakes in the minting process. Some pennies were struck on copper planchets (the metal pieces used to make coins), even though the mint had already switched to using zinc. One of the most valuable errors from this time is the 1982-D Small Date Lincoln Penny that was struck on a copper planchet.
What Makes the 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny Special?
The 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny is considered rare because it was not supposed to be made from copper. The mint had already begun producing pennies with zinc in 1982, but a few copper planchets were mistakenly used. These copper pennies are highly sought after by collectors because they are rare and unique.
The first known 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny was discovered in 2016, and it was sold for $18,800 in an auction in 2017. Since then, other examples have also been found, with some selling for tens of thousands of dollars.
How to Identify the 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny
If you think you might have one of these valuable pennies, here’s how you can identify it:
- Mint Mark: Look for the “D” mint mark below the date, which shows that the penny was minted in Denver.
- Date Style: The Small Date version of the penny has a smaller and more delicate “8” and “2” in the year, with the “8” appearing thinner and the “2” having a small curve.
- Weight: A copper penny weighs about 3.11 grams, while a zinc penny weighs about 2.5 grams. If you have a scale, you can weigh your penny to check if it is made of copper.
Other Valuable Coins Still in Circulation
While the 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny is one of the most valuable coins, there are several other coins that are still in circulation today and can be worth a lot of money. Here are some coins to look out for:
1. 1972 Lincoln Cent (Double Die Obverse)
Some 1972 Lincoln Cents have a double die error on the front (obverse), where the date and inscriptions are doubled. These coins can be worth anywhere from $300 to over $1,000 depending on their condition.
2. 1999 Wide “AM” Reverse Lincoln Cent
On some 1999 pennies, the letters “A” and “M” in the word “AMERICA” on the back (reverse) are far apart. This is a rare mistake, and these coins can be worth from $150 to over $500.
3. 1983 Lincoln Cent (Double Die Reverse)
Some 1983 Lincoln Cents have a double die error on the reverse, where the inscriptions on the back appear doubled. These coins are worth between $250 and $400.
4. 1969-S Lincoln Cent (Double Die Obverse)
The 1969-S Lincoln Cent is one of the most valuable coins in circulation today. It has a double die error on the obverse (front), making the inscriptions and date appear doubled. These coins can be worth anywhere from $10,000 to over $70,000, depending on the condition.
5. 1995 Lincoln Cent (Double Die Obverse)
The 1995 Lincoln Cent also has a double die error on the front, making the date and inscriptions appear doubled. These coins are worth between $20 and $50, though coins in better condition can be worth more.
6. 2004 Wisconsin State Quarter (Extra Leaf Error)
Some of the 2004 Wisconsin State Quarters have an extra leaf on the corn stalk on the back. This is known as the “Extra Leaf High” or “Extra Leaf Low” variety. These quarters can be worth from $50 to over $1,000, depending on the rarity and condition.
Table of Valuable Coins in Circulation
Here’s a quick reference to some of the most valuable coins still 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
If you’re interested in finding valuable coins, here are some tips that might help you get started:
1. Examine Your Change Regularly
Always check your pocket change for rare and valuable coins. You never know when you might find one!
2. Use Proper Equipment
To spot errors and anomalies, use a magnifying glass to closely examine your coins. A precise scale can also help you measure the weight of your coins.
3. Stay Informed
The world of coin collecting is always changing. Keep up with the latest numismatic news and auction results to stay aware of the current market and emerging coin discoveries.
Conclusion
Coin collecting is a fascinating hobby, and finding rare coins can be very rewarding. The 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny is one of the most valuable coins from recent history, but many other coins in circulation today are also worth a lot of money. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced collector, regularly checking your change and staying informed about coin values can help you discover hidden treasures. By using the tips in this article, you may be able to spot valuable coins and add them to your collection or even sell them for a substantial profit.
FAQs
1. What is the 1982 Small Date Lincoln Penny worth?
The 1982 Small Date Lincoln Penny struck on a copper planchet is a rare and valuable coin. These pennies can be worth anywhere from $10,000 to $18,000 depending on their condition. The most famous example sold for $18,800 in 2017 at an auction.
2. How can I tell if my 1982 penny is a small date copper penny?
Mint Mark: Look for a “D” below the date, which shows it was minted in Denver.
Date Style: The “8” in the date is thinner, and the “2” has a small curl.
Weight: A copper penny weighs 3.11 grams. You can use a precise scale to confirm the weight.
3. What are some other valuable coins I should look for?
1972 Lincoln Cent (Double Die Obverse) – Worth $300 to $1,000+.
1999 Wide “AM” Reverse Lincoln Cent – Worth $150 to $500+.
1969-S Lincoln Cent (Double Die Obverse) – Can fetch up to $70,000.