As of current authentication, only two 1982-D Small Date Copper pennies have been officially confirmed. Despite numerous claims from individuals who believe they have discovered this rarity, authenticated examples remain exceptionally scarce.
The Rarity of the 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny
The year 1982 was a transitional period for United States one-cent coins. The U.S. Mint shifted production from the traditional 95% copper composition to a more cost-effective copper-plated zinc composition. During this transition, cents were minted in both compositions and in two distinct date styles: "Large Date" and "Small Date."
While millions of 1982-dated pennies were produced in various combinations (copper large date, copper small date, zinc large date, zinc small date) across the Philadelphia (P) and Denver (D) mints, the 1982-D Small Date Copper variety stands out as an extreme rarity. Most 1982 copper cents are common, but the Denver mint was primarily producing zinc cents by the time the small date dies were in use. The few copper examples struck with the small date die at Denver are considered highly valuable error coins.
Why is the 1982-D Small Date Copper so Rare?
The extreme rarity of the 1982-D Small Date Copper penny is attributed to a presumed minting error. It's believed that a small number of copper planchets (coin blanks) were inadvertently struck with the 1982-D small date dies after the Denver Mint had largely transitioned to using zinc planchets. This makes it one of the most sought-after modern error coins among collectors.
Authentication and Misconceptions
The vast majority of individuals who believe they possess a 1982-D Small Date Copper penny often have either:
- A 1982-D Small Date zinc penny (which is common).
- A 1982 (P-mint, no mint mark) Small Date copper penny (which is also common).
- A 1982 (P or D) Large Date copper penny (which is common).
The key differentiating factor for the rare variety is the combination of the "D" mint mark, the "Small Date" style, and the copper composition. Given the significant value of authenticated examples, many people diligently search for this elusive coin, leading to widespread misconceptions about its prevalence.
Key Characteristics to Identify
To properly identify a potentially rare 1982-D Small Date Copper penny, careful examination is required.
| Feature | Common 1982 Cents (P, D) | Rare 1982-D Small Date Copper |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | 95% Copper OR Copper-Plated Zinc | 95% Copper |
| Weight | ~3.1 grams (copper) / ~2.5 grams (zinc) | ~3.1 grams |
| Mint Mark | P (no mark) or D | D |
| Date Style | Large Date or Small Date | Small Date |
| Rarity | Common | Extremely Rare |
How to Check Your Penny
If you believe you have found a 1982-D Small Date Copper penny, follow these steps for initial verification:
- Weigh the Coin: This is the most crucial step. Use a precise digital scale.
- A copper penny from 1982 will weigh approximately 3.1 grams.
- A zinc penny from 1982 will weigh approximately 2.5 grams.
- If your 1982-D Small Date penny weighs 2.5 grams, it is the common zinc variety.
- Examine the Date Style: Carefully compare the "1982" numerals to known examples of large and small dates. The "2" in the small date is typically more slender and has a less pronounced loop.
- Check for the "D" Mint Mark: Ensure there is a "D" mint mark below the date on the obverse (front) of the coin.
- Seek Professional Authentication: If your 1982-D Small Date penny weighs 3.1 grams, it is highly recommended to submit it to a reputable third-party grading service (such as PCGS or NGC) for professional authentication and grading. This is the only way to officially confirm its authenticity and value.
