1982 Lincoln Penny Value
1982 was the year the cent switched from copper to copper-plated zinc, creating seven varieties (Large/Small Date × composition × mint). Most are worth face, but the ultra-rare 1982-D Small Date copper cent is worth a fortune.
What is your penny really worth?
Snap a photo and Coin AI identifies the coin, estimates its grade, and gives a value range in seconds.
Key facts
1982 Lincoln Penny value by grade
| Grade / Condition | Approximate value (estimate) |
|---|---|
| Circulated (common) | $0.01 (face) |
| Mint State (MS-65) | $0.10–$2 |
| Mint State (MS-67 RD) | $10–$50+ |
| 1982-D Small Date Copper | $10,000–$18,800 |
Ranges are broad, educational estimates — not appraisals. Real value depends on exact grade, eye appeal, varieties, and the live market. Scan your coin in Coin AI for an estimate based on your actual photos.
Notable varieties & errors
- 1982-D Small Date Copper — Should not exist — a few known, worth tens of thousands. Weighs 3.11g.
- Large Date vs Small Date — Compare the 2 in the date and the spacing — affects which variety you hold.
- Copper vs Zinc — Copper weighs 3.11g, zinc 2.5g — a scale is the fastest tell.
What is your penny really worth?
Snap a photo and Coin AI identifies the coin, estimates its grade, and gives a value range in seconds.
Frequently asked questions
Is a 1982 penny copper or zinc?
1982 cents were struck in both. Copper cents weigh 3.11 grams and zinc cents weigh 2.5 grams, so a precise scale is the surest test. The composition matters most for the famous 1982-D Small Date copper variety.
Which 1982 penny is worth money?
The 1982-D Small Date struck on a copper planchet is the prize — only a few are known and they sell for five figures. Ordinary 1982 cents are worth face value unless in pristine mint-state grades.